Eugene, OR – Sporting Cascades FC is deeply saddened to announce the passing of John R. Galas, the first sporting director in Sporting Cascades FC team history, at the age of 53.
With more than 30 years of coaching experience, Galas became a legendary figure in Oregon soccer circles and made an everlasting impact in the lives of countless players, coaches, fans and those he befriended on and off the field. Galas’ career started in the mid-90s coaching youth soccer both at the club and high school levels in Eugene. He went on to lead two stints as head coach and sporting director of Lane United FC (2013-18, 2022-25), head coach of Lane Community College Men’s Soccer in 2016, assistant coach of Portland Thorns FC in 2013, goalkeeper coach of Portland Timbers in 2006, and assistant coach of the University of Oregon’s women’s soccer team from 2003-05. Galas also coached with FC Tucson, Villarreal FC B, Real Salt Lake Academy, University of Arizona, and Florida State University, helping to develop dozens of players who play and played professionally in La Liga, NWSL, MLS, Liga MX, USL League One, and USL Championship.
A football lifer, Galas was born in Walnut Creek, California in 1972 and fell in love with the beautiful game at a young age when the family lived in Switzerland. After returning to the States, Galas’ passion for soccer grew as he played goalkeeper in high school, local club soccer, and at Pierce College. While in college, Galas suffered a season-ending injury which led him to the career path of coaching the game he loved. Galas earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon (97) and a master’s degree in football industries from the University of Liverpool (99).
In October 2023, Galas’s cancer journey began with the diagnosis of synovial sarcoma, an ultra-rare cancer which he fought valiantly while continuing to mentor and coach players on and off the field. The family would like to especially thank Cascade Health Hospice and Willamette Valley Cancer Institute for their support and care during his final months of life.
Personally, Galas enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, traveling as long as soccer was involved in some form or fashion, and tending to the family vineyard in the off season. He is preceded in death by his father David. He is survived by his wife Anna and their sons, Caleb and Hayden, mother Linda, brother David, as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Galas’s legacy will live through those he has worked with, coached, mentored, and befriended. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. You’ll Never Walk Alone.