Angel Santana is a former player and dedicated student of the game whose journey spans from Brownsville, Texas to France and now the sidelines at ABU. After moving to Lewisville at age 13, he began his playing career with the Dallas Texans as a goalkeeper before transitioning into roles as a defender and holding midfielder.
A torn ACL during his sophomore year of high school became a turning point that deepened his commitment to the sport. Following a successful recovery, Angel earned the opportunity to train at the Paris Saint-Germain Youth Academy in France β an experience that accelerated his development both technically and tactically.
Soon after graduating from Lewisville High School, he signed his first professional contract with FC Gavilanes in Matamoros, Mexico, where he competed until a second ACL injury ultimately shifted his path toward coaching.
Since transitioning to the sideline, Angel has focused on mentoring players both on and off the pitch. Based in Dallas, he is currently working toward his coaching licenses and remains committed to growing his knowledge of the game in order to impact the next generation of players.
Angel is a follower of Christ, enjoys traveling, exploring new restaurants, and playing video games in his free time. Heβs also a proud cat dad to three. Every step of his journey β from Brownsville to France β has shaped his passion and purpose: to serve, guide, and grow the game he loves.
