Our Staff
Brandon Thompson - Boys Director (Coaching/Technical)
Brandon Thompson grew up in Oakland, playing for Montclair Clippers, Bay Oaks Soccer Club, and Rockridge Sting (now East Bay United) as a goalkeeper, striker, and midfielder. He continued playing recreationally through college and still plays weekly with his group of friends. A dedicated Manchester United fan, Brandon has supported the club for 25 years.
Brandon discovered his passion for youth soccer in 2014 when he earned his first coaching license. Since then, he has obtained 10 coaching licenses and certifications, including a USSF D License and Ajax's Youth Academies education program. He plans to earn his USSF C License this year to further his coaching development.
This is Brandon’s ninth year coaching with East Bay Eclipse Soccer Club and his second year serving in a Director role, where his experience and enthusiasm continue to inspire players and staff alike.
Brandon’s love for the game is contagious, and his ability to connect with players and families has made him an integral part of the Eclipse community. Whether on the field or in leadership, he brings a positive energy that fuels the club’s mission and culture.
Jessica Grilli - Executive Director
Jessica Grilli has been a key part of East Bay Eclipse Soccer Club for over 14 years, starting in 2011 when her oldest daughter joined the Future Eclipse program. Since then, she has served as Club Administrator, General Manager, and now leads the club as Executive Director.
With a strong background in Operations Management and Client Services, Jess also served on the Orinda Baseball Association board (2017–2021) and has been an active member of the Eclipse board since 2019.
As Executive Director, Jess oversees all aspects of the club’s operations, including staff management, player and parent relations, program development, and financial administration. She collaborates closely with the Founding Advisor, Boys and Girls Directors, staff, and families to ensure alignment with the club’s mission and values.
Jessica’s leadership and dedication to youth sports continue to foster a positive and impactful environment for players and families.
Jose Diaz Mercado - Girls Director (Coaching/Technical)
Jose Diaz Mercado has been a club director since 2021, working seamlessly with staff and players to ensure smooth operations and continuous improvement across all aspects of the club.
A three-year varsity soccer captain at Alhambra High School, Jose earned All-DVAL First Team honors in 2015-16 and played club soccer locally for 12 years. He began his coaching career running soccer camps and clinics for his church and later led the Campolindo High School Boys Soccer Program for a season. He also spent two additional seasons coaching their JV team and assisting varsity. Currently, Jose is the JV Girls Head Coach and Varsity Assistant Coach at Acalanes High School.
Jose holds a USSF D License and is pursuing his C License. Additionally, he has earned more than 10 certifications from organizations such as USSF, United Soccer Coaches, La Liga, and TOVO. This is his seventh year with Eclipse.
Jose’s passion for the game is matched by his dedication to fostering a supportive and fun environment for players to grow and thrive both on and off the field. He takes pride in inspiring young athletes to reach their full potential while cultivating a lifelong love for soccer. His energy, enthusiasm, and genuine care for the players make him an invaluable part of the Eclipse family.
Shane Carney - Founding Advisor (Complete Bio for Shane)
Shane Carney founded East Bay Eclipse Soccer Club in 2010 and has served as Director since its inception. With over 25 years of experience coaching youth club soccer, Shane has earned over 80 certifications in coaching, child development, and player safety. He also spent nine years coaching the Varsity Boys Soccer team at Campolindo High School, where he achieved more titles than the program had in its previous 40+ years combined.
A Lafayette native, Shane attended Burton Valley, Stanley, and Campolindo schools.
Currently serving as Founding Advisor, Shane plays a strategic and guiding role within East Bay Eclipse Soccer Club. He works closely with the Executive Director to ensure the club’s foundational values and mission are upheld. His responsibilities include mentorship, staff development, operational oversight, and fostering strategic relationships. Shane also supports program development, ensures administrative and financial compliance, and provides expertise to maintain the club’s legacy and continued growth.
Shane is the heart and soul of East Bay Eclipse Soccer Club. His vision and dedication laid the foundation for the club’s culture, creating an environment where every player feels valued and inspired to grow. Shane’s passion and commitment are the reason Eclipse exists, and his influence touches every player, coach, and family. The club would not be what it is today without his tireless devotion, and his legacy continues to shape the experience of every child who joins the Eclipse community.
Interested in Coaching for Eclipse? If you are an experienced coach who believes in the Eclipse philosophy, send your resume and statement of interest to director@eastbayeclipse.com.