Montana Surf Welcomes Christopher Behler as New Technical Director

Montana Surf is thrilled to announce the hiring of Christopher Behler as our new Technical Director. Chris brings a wealth of experience as both a professional player and coach, with decades of leadership at the highest levels of youth, collegiate, and professional soccer. 

A former professional player with the San Jose Earthquakes, San Jose Grizzlies, San Francisco Bay Blackhawks, and California Jaguars, Chris has built an equally impressive coaching career across multiple platforms, from collegiate soccer with D1 San Jose State University, to elite youth development with Real Salt Lake – Arizona, Arizona Soccer Club, Almaden FC, and numerous U.S. Youth Soccer ODP programs.

Chris holds some of the highest coaching credentials in the game, including:

• UEFA “A” and “B” Coaching Licenses
• NSCAA “Master Coach” Diploma (College Coach category)
• NSCAA “Premier,” Advanced National, and National Diplomas (all with distinction)
• USYSA Region IV ODP Head Coach
• United Soccer Coaches Regional Staff Instructor

Most recently, Chris served as Director of Boys MLS Next Academy with Real Salt Lake – Arizona, where he coached multiple MLS NEXT and ECNL teams to playoff berths, led UPSL squads to back-to-back conference championships, and guided countless players toward collegiate and professional opportunities.

A graduate of Sonoma State University, Chris earned his B.A. in Business Management with an emphasis in Marketing, blending his passion for the game with strong organizational and leadership expertise.

Off the field, Chris is a nationally recognized leader in advocacy and development. He currently serves as Chair of the United Soccer Coaches Native American Soccer Coaches Advocacy Group, where he works to expand access and opportunities for underrepresented communities in the game.

“Montana Surf has a proud tradition of developing players and growing the game across Montana,” said Behler. “I’m excited to build on that foundation and help create pathways for every player—whether they aspire to play in college, professionally, or simply want to deepen their love for the game.”

Montana Surf is thrilled to welcome a Technical Director whose leadership philosophy, coaching excellence, and commitment to both elite performance and community outreach will elevate every aspect of our club. His vision and proven track record will help shape the next generation of Montana Surf athletes—on and off the field.

Please join us in welcoming Technical Director Christopher Behler to Montana Surf!

Additional Press Inquiries Contact:
Cate Wright 
President, Board of Directors 
Montana Surf Soccer Club
president@montanasurf.org