Coach
Maikeli Lomu

Description

Maikeli Lomu is a dedicated coach and player whose journey in soccer spans local development, international competition, and community impact. A native of Utah County, Maikeli developed his game with Utah Storm (2009–2016) and Spanish Fork High School (2012–2016), building a strong foundation that continues to influence his coaching today.


At the international level, Maikeli currently represents the Tonga National Team, competing in the 2024 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. He has also played for Veitongo FC and Nukuhetulu FC in the Tonga Major League, gaining valuable experience in diverse football environments.


Maikeli has been actively involved in youth development for several years. He has coached with Nebo United since 2020, including serving as an academy trainer from 2022 to 2023. He is currently a coach for the freshman/sophomore program at Spanish Fork High School, where he continues to help develop the next generation of players. In addition to team coaching, he has spent the past two years training individual players, focusing on technical growth, confidence, and game understanding.


Beyond the field, Maikeli is passionate about using soccer as a tool for service and connection. Alongside his wife, he co-founded Players for Change, an annual soccer and service camp in Tonga that brings together athletes to develop their skills while giving back to local communities.


His background also includes service as a firefighter in Spanish Fork (2021–2024) and experience as a pottery instructor and small business owner, running a local studio from 2020 to 2024. These experiences shape his holistic approach to coaching—emphasizing discipline, creativity, resilience, and character development.


Maikeli is committed to creating a positive and challenging environment where players can grow both on and off the field while developing a lifelong love for the game.


professional skills

Playing Experience

Tonga National Team (2024–Present) – FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (2024)

Veitongo FC – Tonga Major League

Nukuhetulu FC – Tonga Major League

Utah Storm (2009–2016)

Spanish Fork High School (2012–2016)

Coaching Experience

Nebo United Soccer Club – Head Coach (2020–Present)

Nebo United Academy – Trainer (2022–2023)

Spanish Fork High School – Freshman/Sophomore Coach (Current)

Private Individual Training (2023–Present)

Community & Leadership

Co-Founder, Players for Change – Soccer & Service Camp (Tonga)

Firefighter – Spanish Fork (2021–2024)

Additional Experience

Pottery Instructor (2018–Present)

Co-Owner, Local Pottery Studio (2020–2024)

Coaching Philosophy

Focused on developing confident, disciplined players who love the game and lead with character.

Other team members