Our Story
Top Dawg Soccer: Our Story
Top Dawg Soccer started with a simple yet powerful mission—helping local players graduate high school and take the next step in their soccer careers. What began as a commitment to supporting overlooked talent has grown into an elite training platform for athletes at all levels.
Today, we have guided over 100 student-athletes into college programs while providing specialized training, mentorship, and support beyond the game. Our impact extends far beyond the field, helping players develop the skills, mindset, and opportunities needed to succeed at every stage.
We are fortunate to train some of Minnesota’s top talent, from youth club players to professionals, including MLS homegrown player Loïc Mesanvi and many others competing at the highest levels. Our athletes come from club, academy, and professional environments, all striving for excellence.
At Top Dawg Soccer, we believe in unlocking potential through elite, specialized training, one-on-one mentorship, and a competitive environment that challenges players to be their best. Whether you’re working toward a college scholarship, pursuing academy selection, chasing professional aspirations, or simply looking to improve your game, we provide the tools, knowledge, and culture to help you excel—no matter your starting point.
Brayan Lopez
Founder & Head Trainer
Founder & Head Trainer
Brayan Lopez is the Founder and Head Trainer of Top Dawg Soccer, bringing a wealth of experience as both a high-level player and elite coach. His journey as a player saw him develop at some of the highest levels in U.S. soccer, earning full scholarships to Jefferson College and Marshall University, one of the top Division I programs in the country.
At just 17 years old, Brayan was already training with Minnesota United’s first team (NASL), an experience that helped shape his understanding of the professional game. Over the years, he has trained with multiple MLS, MLS Next Pro, and USL teams, gaining firsthand experience at nearly every level of the game. As a youth player, he represented Minnesota and ODP Region 2, earning a spot on the ODP All-Star Team in 2014 and being ranked as the #1 player in the country for his position.
Now, as the Founder and Head Trainer of Top Dawg Soccer, Brayan has dedicated his career to developing top-level athletes and providing the highest quality training. He has coached and mentored some of the best talent in the country, including:
• MLS, USL, and MLS Next Pro players
• Professional female athletes
• U.S. Youth National Team & U.S. Futsal National Team players
• Top NCAA Division I players
With experience both playing and coaching at every level of the game, Brayan has developed a unique, elite training approach that prepares athletes for success at the next level. His mission is simple: to help players maximize their potential through specialized, high-level training in a competitive and professional environment.
Katie Pingel
Top Dawg Soccer Trainer
We are proud to welcome Katie Pingel to the Top Dawg Soccer training staff, bringing an unparalleled level of experience to our athletes. With a career that spans youth national team success, NCAA Division I competition, and professional soccer across multiple countries, Katie offers a unique perspective on what it takes to compete at the highest levels of the game.
Katie’s elite playing career speaks for itself:
• Puma Top 50 – Ranked among the top players in the country
• High School All-American – Named among the Top 11 players in the nation
• U.S. Youth National Team (7 years) – First team camp at just 12 years old
• 5-Year ODP Captain – Leading scorer & assist leader, won two National Championships
• Golden Boot Winner – A dominant attacking force
• Top Player Ranking – Rated as one of the best players in the country at age 15
• Full Scholarship to Santa Clara University – Committed at 15
• Offered First Pro Contract at 14 – A rare accomplishment
• High School Record Holder – Broke the goal-scoring record in just 12 games
Katie went on to play professionally in multiple countries, making an impact at every level:
• Costa Rica (Saprissa) – Leading goal scorer
• Iceland (KR) – Leading goal scorer & assist leader
• Sweden (Kalmar) – Competed at the highest level
Katie brings professionalism, leadership, and an elite mentality to Top Dawg Soccer, ensuring our athletes receive top-tier training from someone who has lived the game at the highest levels. Her experience will be invaluable for players looking to improve, compete, and take their game to the next level.
Ricardo Vera
Top Dawg Soccer Trainer
We are excited to welcome Coach Ricardo to the Top Dawg Soccer coaching staff! With a strong playing background and high-level tactical understanding, Ricardo brings a sharp analytical mind, technical expertise, and elite training experience to our athletes.
As a player, Ricardo developed at some of the top academy and collegiate levels, including:
• Minnesota Thunder Academy DA (U12-U15)
• Portland Timbers MLS Academy (U16)
• NCAA Division II – Northern Michigan University (2021-2024)
• NCAA Division III – North Central University (Current)
• UPSL (Semi-Professional)
Ricardo’s ability to read the game, break down tactical scenarios, and execute at a high level sets him apart, both as a player and as a coach. He has worked closely with Coach Brayan, assisting in the training of MLS-level players, MLS Next Pro players, professional women’s players, and high-level youth athletes.
His coaching experience extends beyond private training, as he has also worked alongside Coach Brayan at the varsity level, specializing in defensive development, tactical coaching, player analysis, and position-specific training. His attention to detail and ability to analyze and teach the game at a high level make him a key part of the Top Dawg Soccer coaching staff.
With elite technical demonstrations, tactical insights, and a deep understanding of player development, Ricardo plays an essential role in helping athletes maximize their potential and elevate their game.