As we kicked off our new season this past month, this September we’re proud to highlight the players and coaches who embody the mission and values of Phoenix Rising FC Youth Soccer. The start of a new year brings fresh energy and renewed inspiration, and already we’ve seen incredible stories that showcase the strength of our development pathways.
From Tovah Avua’a representing Samoa at the OFC Women’s Championship and helping her team qualify for the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, to Pierce Rizzo making history as the youngest goal-scorer in Phoenix Rising’s professional era, our players continue to prove what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. And with leaders like William Malott, our Director of Player Pathways and U.S. Soccer Federation Instructor, guiding programs like the Center of Excellence, we are ensuring every player has the tools, mentorship, and environment to thrive.
Together, they represent the dedication, vision, and bright future of Phoenix Rising FC Youth Soccer as we begin another exciting season
Tovah Auva’a
In early August, Tovah Avua’a joined the Samoa U16 National Team for the OFC Women’s Championship—the official qualifying tournament for the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Over the course of the tournament, she earned 4 caps, scored 2 goals, and added 1 assist. One of her brightest moments came in the semi-final against the Solomon Islands, where she struck in the 83rd minute to help Samoa secure a commanding 5–0 victory and, most importantly, a World Cup berth for the second consecutive cycle.
Samoa went on to capture silver in the final, finishing just behind New Zealand, but with qualification firmly secured. That means Tovah and her teammates will advance to next year’s U17 World Cup in Morocco, where she’ll officially step up to the next age group and take her place on the global stage.
Tovah’s performance not only highlights her individual quality but also places her within a historic moment for Samoa, as the nation continues to raise its profile in women’s soccer. From the ECNL fields here at Phoenix Rising to the world stage in Morocco, she is a shining example of hard work, talent, and determination.
Pierce Rizzo
This season, Pierce Rizzo signed a USL Academy Contract, allowing him to retain college eligibility while training daily with the Phoenix Rising First Team. A fixture in training sessions and matchday preparations, he has steadily earned his way into match selections and contributed significantly on the field.
On August 16 against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Pierce’s progression reached a milestone. Starting at right back, he scored in the 73rd minute to become the youngest player in Phoenix Rising’s professional era to find the back of the net. His all-around performance—playing 90 minutes, winning six of seven duels, drawing a team-high four fouls, and registering an interception—earned him a place on the USL Championship Team of the Week (Week 24).
Earlier in the season, he made his professional debut in March against Monterey Bay FC and has since accumulated over 325 minutes of first-team action across multiple starts. Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah praised Pierce’s adaptability and maturity: “We play a young kid in an unnatural position and he’s showing what this club is about… I’m very proud of him to be the youngest Rising player to score in a game and that is amazing.”
Pierce’s steady rise highlights exactly what our development pathway is built to achieve: Academy players gaining opportunities with the First Team and making their impact felt. With his first professional goal behind him and valuable minutes under his belt, his future with Phoenix Rising continues to shine.
William Malott
As Phoenix Rising’s Director of Player Pathways, William Malott plays a vital role in shaping the future of our players. In addition to serving as a U.S. Soccer Federation Instructor, William holds some of the highest coaching qualifications available, including the USSF A License and the USSF Director of Coaching (DOC) License. He also holds the USYF National 3 License and the United Soccer Coaches Advanced National Diploma, reflecting a deep commitment to coaching education and player development.
At Phoenix Rising, William oversees our Center of Excellence, bridging the gap between regions and platforms. His work ensures that every player has the guidance, support, and resources they need to pursue their goals at the next level.
The Center of Excellence, is a program designed to give elite players an environment to separate themselves through advanced training and focused development. The program offers opportunities to progress onto platform teams, gain exposure, and continue their journey toward success both on and off the field.
With William’s leadership, players benefit from a clear roadmap—whether their ambition is to play collegiate soccer or to advance into the professional ranks. His commitment to mentorship, development, and opportunity reflects Phoenix Rising’s mission to provide every player with a pathway to reach their highest potential.
