LTCC Soccer welcomes two former Coyotes back to lead programs

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) has named former student-athletes Carlos D. Trujeque Leal and Maddie Smith as its new head men's and women's soccer coaches, reinforcing the college's commitment to developing student-athletes who succeed in the classroom, compete at a high level, and transfer to four-year programs.

Smith returns to LTCC after competing for the program in 2019 and later serving as a goalkeeper coach for both the men's and women's teams. She brings collegiate coaching experience from Bellevue University and Florida State University, along with a background in strength and conditioning and athlete development.

After her time at LTCC, Smith continued her playing career at the NCAA Division I level, including a graduate transfer season at Florida State. She holds a master's degree in coaching and sport education and focuses on preparing student-athletes for success both on the field and beyond the college level.

Smith's journey from LTCC student-athlete to Division I competitor and now head coach reflects the pathway the college aims to create for its students.

"This program shaped my path as a student-athlete," Smith said. "I'm excited to return and build on that legacy while helping our players succeed on and off the field."

Trujeque Leal, also an LTCC alumnus, returns to lead the men's program after establishing himself as a coach and mentor in the South Lake Tahoe soccer community. A former Conference MVP, All-American, and one of the top goal scorers in program history, he brings both high-level playing experience and a strong connection to the college's mission.

Trujeque Leal's return reflects LTCC's connection to the South Lake Tahoe community, with a focus on developing local players and creating pathways to the college level.

He currently serves as head coach of South Tahoe Football Club and is the founder of Lake Tahoe Fútbol Academy, where he has developed youth and college-bound players and built partnerships across the region. His approach emphasizes discipline, creativity and growth, with a focus on helping student-athletes reach the next level.

"This opportunity means a great deal to me as someone who takes pride in serving my hometown," Trujeque Leal said. "I'm ready to give back and build something strong here."

Both coaches return to programs with a strong foundation and a history of success, focusing on sustaining that momentum while expanding opportunities for student-athletes in the Tahoe Basin.

"Maddie and Carlos understand what it means to be a student-athlete at LTCC," said Superintendent/President Jeff DeFranco. "They've lived that experience and bring a clear vision for helping our students succeed in the classroom and on the pitch."

"Maddie's journey is exactly what we want for our students," DeFranco said. "She started here, competed at the highest level, and now returns to lead the program. Carlos brings a strong connection to this community and a track record of developing local players, and both are committed to building on the success of these programs."

Former LTCC head coach and athletics director Chris DeLeon, who helped build the women's soccer program, will serve as a mentor and resource for both programs.

Both coaches will begin immediately, with recruiting already underway ahead of the upcoming season.