Shark Coast FC is proud to celebrate a special achievement by one of the club’s owners and leaders, Nathan Monsanto, who was recently voted the greatest boys soccer player in Volusia-Flagler history by readers of The Daytona Beach News-Journal.
The poll was part of a larger USA TODAY Network initiative recognizing athletes who have shaped communities and left a lasting impact on sports across the country. The soccer category featured 17 of the most accomplished players ever to come out of Volusia and Flagler counties, including World Cup participants, professional players, collegiate standouts, record holders, and local legends.
After thousands of votes were cast, Monsanto finished at the top of the list.
For those who know Nate, the recognition comes as no surprise.
A standout at Flagler Palm Coast High School, Monsanto served as team captain for two seasons and helped lead the Bulldogs to a 20-5-1 record during his senior year. He earned All-Area First Team honors twice, recording 13 goals and 13 assists as a junior before following that performance with 13 goals and 17 assists during his senior campaign.
Following his high school career, Monsanto continued playing at Stetson University, where he competed for four seasons before transitioning into coaching and soccer leadership. His playing career eventually reached the professional ranks when he made his professional debut in 2022 with Valley United FC in Phoenix, Arizona, competing in the third division of professional soccer in the United States. During his time with the club, he recorded an assist and achieved a lifelong goal of playing professionally.
Today, his impact on the game extends far beyond his accomplishments as a player.
As Sporting Director and part of the ownership group at Shark Coast FC, Monsanto has helped build one of the most ambitious soccer development pathways in Florida. His vision has helped create opportunities for local players to advance from youth soccer to pre-professional competition while keeping local talent connected to the community that helped develop them.
Under his leadership, Shark Coast FC has continued to expand opportunities for players throughout Volusia County, providing pathways from recreational soccer to elite youth competition, USL Academy, and USL League Two. The club’s mission has always been simple: create a true home for local talent.
Those who have worked alongside Nate know that his passion for soccer goes far beyond wins and losses. Whether he’s coaching on the field, mentoring young players, helping families navigate the college recruiting process, or working behind the scenes to grow the club, his commitment to the game and the community has been unwavering.
This recognition is not only a reflection of what Nate accomplished as a player, but also of the lasting impact he continues to make on soccer throughout Volusia and Flagler counties.
From his days wearing the Flagler Palm Coast uniform to competing professionally and now helping lead Shark Coast FC’s growth, Monsanto has dedicated much of his life to growing the game and creating opportunities for others.
Everyone at Shark Coast FC congratulates Nate on this incredible honor.
Volusia County is proud of you, and so are we.
