Our Coaches
At Ellerslie Performance Hub, our coaches bring energy, passion, and real experience from competing at various levels across New Zealand and the world. Backed and educated by A-level qualified coaches from Ellerslie AFC — Ben Fletcher and Ryan Shiffman — our team delivers coaching that is as purposeful as it is inspiring. Whether you're just starting out or chasing elite performance, we're here to push you further.
DARREN MOTA
-
I am a qualified football coach holding a C Licence, with additional coaching certifications from both Scotland and the United States. I have coached within a professional academy environment at Ross County FC, coaching the U15 and U16 squads in the Scottish Premier League club's setup. Alongside this, I have over 7 years of experience delivering private 1-to-1 and small group sessions, helping players improve technically, tactically, and physically.
My playing career includes 2 years competing in Scotland and 4 years in the United States on a football scholarship, giving me first-hand experience of both European and American systems. This allows me to guide players not only in their development, but also in understanding pathways to the next level.
Coach
Monju Shohei
-
Monju is a dedicated football coach with a passion for developing well-rounded, confident players. He studied Sports Exercise Science and Coaching in the University, gaining a solid academic foundation in athlete development, performance analysis, and coaching methodology. With over 15 years of coaching experience, Coach Monju brings passion, expertise, and a deep understanding of the game to every training session. Known for a player-centered coaching philosophy, they focus on developing technical skills, tactical awareness, and physical ability for players.
Monju is also a Strength and Conditioning coach. He is a S&C coach for Ellerslie Men’s First team and Reserves in 2026 season, helps players build the power, speed, endurance, and resilience they need to dominate every phase of the game. His S&C programs are designed to enhance movement efficiency, prevent injuries, and unlock peak physical potential.
S&C Support and Youth Coach
-
I am an experienced player having played football for nearly 18 years, and have been coaching for the best part of 7 years. I have played at Ellerslie right through the age groups, currently playing for the Mens u23s. I have just completed my OFC C-license and have coached both a team and academy training for many years. I have lots of pace as well as a very good shot off my left foot.
Youth CoachCharlie Davidson
Youth CoachAlexa Quaranta
-
-I'm Coach Alexa. I am from Illinois, and I have played at the D1, D2, and NAIA levels. I have played semi-pro in the States and overseas in Spain and Greece. I have also won titles at the men's nationals 3v3 and multiple futsal state championships. I love focusing on the technical side of the game as well as football IQ. Every session's goal is to get as many touches on the ball. I want to develop players into having confidence with the ball at their feet. To do this, we will be juggling, dribbling, and developing moves. After each session, the player will receive homework to do on their own as well as feedback. With the high schoolers, I can give advice on how to play college football in the States with my experience. I have coached many players who have won titles in futsal and 3v3, as well as compete in college.
Youth & Senior CoachBen Fletcher
-
Ben Fletcher is a highly experienced football coach with over 12 years of coaching experience in New Zealand, alongside time working within the Crewe Alexandra system in the UK, supporting junior player development.
He is currently working towards his OFC A Licence, continuing to develop his expertise in high-performance football environments.
Ben specialises in position-specific training, focusing on the technical detail, tactical understanding, and decision-making required to excel in your position. Sessions are designed to challenge players, build confidence on the ball, and accelerate individual development.
His coaching approach centres on helping players:
Improve technical execution under pressure
Develop game awareness and positioning
Understand the specific demands of their position
Build habits required for higher levels of football
-
I am from the United States and played college football at the NCAA Division 1 level. Since then I have been playing professionally overseas. In the past 4 years I have had contracts in Denmark, Norway, Latvia, Israel, Turkey, and Vietnam. I have competed in the top tier for most of these clubs and recently competed in the Asian Champions League too. Being a midfielder I specialize in both attacking and defending, but put a high priority on technique. First touch, passing, dribbling, and shooting. I am happy to work with all ages and all skill levels!
Youth Coach