Darko Nikolic
Darko’s coaching journey began in 2017 at Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OKWU), where he served as an Assistant Coach for three years while concurrently pursuing dual Masters Degrees in Business Administration and Strategic Leadership. Transitioning into the realm of youth soccer, he lent his expertise to NEOFC in Owasso and later to Bartlesville
High-school.
In 2021, Darko relocated to Chicago, embarking on a new chapter in his coaching career with West Loop Soccer Club later to be PSG Academy Chicago, ultimately assuming the role of Head Coach. Overseeing six teams spanning ages U6 to U13 for both boys and girls, he demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for mentorship and leadership.
Darko’s own experience as a professional soccer player in his hometown club FC Jagodina spans almost a decade. In 2013, he ventured to the United States to play college soccer at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. His profound ardor for the sport, coupled with an unwavering commitment to imparting his wealth of knowledge, has fueled his involvement in nurturing young talents at Norridge United, a club he co-founded.
Nikola Dakovic
Nikola began his coaching career in early 2014, commencing at FC Cukaricki U8, where he had previously dedicated 11 formative years to his youth playing career. Following his transition to the United States in 2015, he continued to nurture his coaching acumen at the institutions of Chicago Blues and West Loop Soccer Club later to be PSG Academy Chicago, subsequently embracing the role of Head Coach, orchestrating the development of various age groups encompassing both boys and girls.
Nikola’s profound soccer career is underscored by his extensive tenure as a professional player in his home country. He commenced his soccer venture at FC Cukaricki, spending 11 years within the youth academy before securing a professional contract and subsequently leaving an indelible mark at FC Rad, IMT, and FC Radnik. His prowess further extended to the national youth selection of Serbia, an experience that enriched his understanding of the sport at a national level.
A distinguished alumnus of Megatrend University, Nikola holds a degree in International Economics, complemented by his License as a Real Estate Agent, thereby attesting to his multidimensional prowess beyond the realm of soccer. As a co-founder of Norridge United, he continues to infuse his wealth of expertise into the fabric of the club, fostering a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship.
Dusan Grbic
Dusan embarked on his professional soccer journey at the age of 7 within the esteemed confines of his hometown’s premier soccer institution, FC Cukaricki. Over the course of a decade, He developed his moves and finesse through the academy’s intense youth programs culminating in a pivotal semi-professional contract at the age of 17.
Demonstrating exceptional talent and dedication, he flourished in the top-tier divisions until the age of 23, at which point he solidified his commitment to the sport by securing a coveted professional contract, defending the colors of FC Cukaricki and BSK Borca.
In 2016, Dusan sought a new chapter in his career and relocated to the United States, where he made a conscientious decision to impart his wealth of soccer knowledge and professional experience to the talents within the youth soccer circuit.
Commencing his coaching journey at Chicago Stars, he guided and mentored various age groups, instilling a sense of fervor and discipline within each aspiring athlete. His unwavering passion for the sport serves as a testament to his enduring commitment, and his extensive professional portfolio serves as a beacon of invaluable expertise for Norrdge United, a club he co-founded with a vision to foster excellence and sportsmanship.
Stefan Veljovic
Stefan Veljovic’s soccer journey is rooted in a period of historic success at Anderson University, where he competed from 2010 to 2013 as one of the members of the men’s program. During those years, the team achieved an unprecedented run—winning three consecutive Conference Tournament Championships and capturing the Conference League title in 2011, setting a standard that would define the program’s legacy. Those seasons shaped Stefan’s understanding of discipline, winning culture, and what it truly takes to build a championship environment—lessons learned through daily commitment, resilience, and love for the game.
Following his playing career, Stefan transitioned seamlessly into coaching, returning to the Anderson men’s program in 2014 as an assistant coach, where he continued to grow his tactical knowledge and leadership from the sidelines. In 2015, his passion for development led him into youth soccer, where he has coached continuously ever since. From that point forward, Stefan dedicated his career to teaching the game the right way—building confident players, fostering competitive mindsets, and passing on the values forged during his collegiate years.
Beyond the field, Stefan brings an academic foundation that strengthens his coaching approach. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, which plays a strongl role in how he connects with players, understands motivation, and supports development at every stage. This blend of mental and athletic insight guided him into leadership roles, including serving as Director of Coaching at PSG Academy Chicago, where he oversaw player development and coaching standards at a high level. After that chapter, Stefan chose to build something deeply persona along with his partners l— Norridge United FC with a clear vision: to create a club rooted in long-term development, strong values, and a genuine love for the game.