Sergio Venegas has been a part of the Fresno Christian soccer program since the very beginning when the boys team first started in 1994. Receiving no payment, Venegas volunteered his time to coach his son Nick Venegas for his junior season. He eventually worked alongside Head Coach Matt Markarian to develop the team during its early years and continued to pour into athletes for more than three decades. This past summer Venegas took a leave of absence from coaching after his family announced he was diagnosed with colon cancer.
Venegas’ gentle nature and well of kindness puts Venegas in a league of his own when it comes to coaching. His experience with the sport allows him to not only see the game but understand it. Many people are good coaches, but few are incredible on and off the field. No matter the circumstances, Venegas puts everyone above himself. Whether it is offering rides or extending an invite to hot chocolate after practice, few compare to the generosity he provides.
Markarian has known Venegas for 31 years, first meeting him when applying for a coaching position at FCS. Venegas was a part of the committee that hired Markarian decades ago, marking the beginning of their enduring friendship.
“I love Sergio like a father,” Markarian said. “He has been a fantastic supporter and mentor during my time at FCS, he is an incredible coach and an even better person. I pray that coach Sergio recovers and is able to rejoin us on the sideline.”
Senior and team captain Samuel Rieker has known Sergio since he was in first grade, forming and building a close relationship through their time working together.
“His immense knowledge and passion for football is so evident in the way and style he coaches,” Rieker said. “He is not afraid to tell you what you are doing wrong, and personally that has helped me grow and challenge myself as an always developing footballer.”
Venegas has reached hundreds of hearts, always offering advice and never missing the chance to crack a wise one. His immense knowledge of the game has transformed him from a once young and talented player into a wise, confident and trustworthy coach. Above all his humor and ability to connect to the team has reserved him a spot in the group as one of the guys.
FC alumnus Jakob Rieker has been around the Venegas family since he was a young boy, eager to take his soccer career to the next level.
“Sergio is a man filled with wisdom, and he is not afraid to share it,” Rieker said. “Most of my interactions with Sergio are me listening and taking notes while he enlightens me and teaches me the ropes for coaching and mentoring others.”
Sports have the unique ability to spark friendships, form connections and build families. No matter how long you’ve played or been a part of the team, Sergio always succeeds to make you feel welcome into the FC boys soccer family.
Head Coach Jacob Bynum heads into his third season and fourth year working alongside Venegas. Both are determined and excited to surpass the previous season’s record.
“From soccer to life he always seems to have the answers, and if he doesn’t, loves to brainstorm and hear the thoughts of others to come to a conclusion,” Bynum said. “Sergio has helped me as a coach in terms of his demeanor as he is always calm yet stern when needed, which is very important as a coach.”
As the start to the season looms closer, players’ spirits lower after the absence of their favorite coach was announced this August. Venegas is battling medical issues that shocked his family. Though facing trials, Sergio continues to persevere, showing his never-give-up kind of attitude, inspiring his family, friends and soccer community to stay strong during this time of challenge.
The boys team has never been closer as they come together to help in any way they can. They send prayers and voluntarily rake leaves, cut grass and sweep, taking care of the tasks Venegas is unable to do.
Ethan Klassen, ‘27, is a center defender and is starting his second season of high school soccer this year. Klassen is a part of the second generation of soccer players coached by Venegas, following his father Jon who had played for Venegas many years ago.
“It is important to devote my time to doing hard work for him because he has devoted years of his time to us and our program helping us grow in our sport and our relationship with our teammates,” Klassen said.
A leader, role model, and someone to always look to for a word of encouragement, Venegas has sculpted a program to not only create soccer players, but to form strong, respectful and fine young men, through his years of dedication.
Ohan Topjian, ‘25, is prepared to start his fourth year of high school soccer, alongside his fellow seniors, and teammates. A center-mid, forward, and winger, Topjian has done it all, being coached by Venegas throughout his FC career.
“He has taught me things on and off the field,” Topjian said. “He never would greet with a handshake but with a hug.”
Over several decades, Venegas has invested in athletes like who have continued to pursue multiple sports while implementing his influence. Multi-sport athlete, Anna Pascual,’27, played for Venegas as one of the youngest members on the team.
“Sergio stood out because he believed in me and showed me I could do anything if I put in the work,” Pascual said. “The first time he yelled at me to keep going, he later told me it was out of love and made sure I knew that. He never treated me like I was too young to play with his team.”
During this time of uncertainty, struggle, and sorrow for the Venegas family, prayers are appreciated.
A message from from the FC boys soccer team and the community; Thank you Sergio! We want to extend an endless amount of gratitude for your impact in so many of our lives, we love you!
The season kicks off November 19 at Kingsburg High, but will not be the same without the team’s favorite assistant coach. Players are eager to start their first game, playing for a lot more than just themselves. Visit the Athletic page Scores and Schedules for the complete schedule.
Please leave a word of encouragement or a favorite memory if you have been coached by Sergio Venegas in the comments below.
To read more from The Feather, visit FC girls’ basketball wading into the new season or Food Review: Houston vs. Al’s Hot Chicken.
