Oral Roberts University Men's Soccer

Years at ORU: 12th Season (97-75-27) Coaching Achievements: Summit League Coach of the Year: 2021,2022 Summit League Championships:  2014, 2019, 2021, 2022 Player Development: Developed 19 United Soccer Coaches All-Region players, Four-consecutive Summit League Offensive Player of the Year (2020-2023), the 2023 Summit League Newcomer of the Year, and over 90 All-League players. Coaching Philosophy: Head Coach Ryan Bush emphasizes the motto, “Sacrifice Equates My Success.”  His approach prioritizes God, Family, Academics, and Soccer in that order to create a culture that develops a brotherhood of student-athletes that collectively pursue the “Golden Standard.”  Head Coach Ryan Bush enters his 13th season at the helm of ORU Men's soccer, and has been a staple in the soccer programs at Oral Roberts University since he arrived on campus as a player in 2001. Bush has pushed the women’s and men’s sides to garner regional and national recognition. During Bush’s first six years on the men’s side (2013-2018), the program achieved its five best consecutive seasons in program history. It finished as conference champs or conference runners-up 2013-2015.  The men’s team also broke a program record for the least amount of goals allowed in a season (2013). Bush led the side to finish regionally ranked in 2014. In 2013, Bush placed Johnny Chavez in the Major League Soccer draft, a first for the program, additionally 2 more players were placed in the Major League Soccer Draft in 2014 (Marco Hernandez) and 2015 (Tarik Salkicic). Under Bush’s leadership former assistant coach Mac Orr went on to become the youngest professional soccer coach in the country after working under Bush for 2 seasons (assistant coach at Tulsa Roughnecks USL 2015-2016).  When Bush left the women’s side in 2012 the team had achieved the second most wins in program history and notched some of the biggest wins in history. They achieved the highest RPI ranking to date (2012), at the time. Bush’s second recruiting class upon graduation would go onto become the most successful and decorated class in program history. Under his leadership he has implemented an overall culture change with an emphasis on spiritual and character development. The men’s team has seen massive improvement in graduation rates and overall grade point averages. Bush’s implementation of character and personal growth programs have proven effective both on and off the field. In his first year as Head Coach, Coach Bush guided the team to a Summit League regular season Conference Runner Up finish after being picked in the preseason to finish last. The 2013 squad broke a program record for the least number of goals given up in a season at ORU. Senior Marco Hernandez earned NSCAA All-Region honors.  Hernandez was also the first Golden Eagle to be named to the MLS Super Draft’s list of eligible players to be selected. In just his 2nd season at the helm, Coach Bush’s program won the Summit League Regular Season Conference Championship and finished regionally ranked in the West, both program firsts. He led the program to its first regular season winning regular season record in over a decade. Under his leadership the Golden Eagles were top of the conference in Goals per game. Senior Johnny Chavez was the first Golden Eagle to win Summit League Conference Player of the Year Honors.  Chavez was selected as  NSCAA All-Region along with being added to the 2015 MLS Draft list and the first Oklahoman signed for the USL Tulsa Roughnecks.  Former Assistant Coach (2014-2015)  and Player Mac Orr went on to be the youngest professional coach in the United States after being led by Coach Bush, signing to be an Assistant Coach with the Tulsa Roughnecks for their inaugural season (2015). Furthermore, the program landed its first full USA Youth National Team recruit, Tarik Salkicic who featured for the USA U-17 National Team in the 2011 U-17 World Cup. Bush’s third season was another program first. The Golden Eagles finished second in the Summit League Regular season and were Summit League Conference Tournament Runners Up.  2013-2015’s run was the best consecutive finish in program history.  The group finished top of the conference in goals per game. Tarik Salkicic was the third player named to the MLS Draft eligible list and received All-Conference accolades.  Senior Edgardo Mira went on to sign his first professional contract in El Salvador with 1st Division side Sonsonante FC.  Former Freshman Goalkeeper Hunter Harrison went on to sign his first professional contract with the Tulsa Roughnecks. Bush currently serves on the NSCAA Ranking Committee for the West Region. Coach Bush’s fourth season in charge featured a national non-conference schedule featuring schools from the PAC-12 and B10 Conferences.  The program achieved a regional ranking of fourth in the West region. ORU received votes in the NSCAA Top 25 National Polls for the first time in over a decade after opening with weekend road victories over Incarnate Word and Michigan State. Junior midfielder Santiago Riveros finished 25th in the country for assists. In the past five years under his leadership, the men's soccer team achieved back-to-back regular season championships in 2021 and 2022, a first in the program's storied history. Adding to the program's list of accolades, Bush has coached five players to Offensive Player of the Year honors in the Summit League—a record for the league. His expertise in developing elite talent was further highlighted in 2023 when he coached the lead goal-scorer in the country during the regular season. The Golden Eagles have not only excelled on the field but have also consistently been recognized for their excellence, maintaining a position in the Top 25 for the entirety of the 2023 season. This achievement contributes to over 40 weeks between 2019 and 2023 that the team has been ranked in the Top 25, showcasing the success and growing reputation on the national stage. Prior to moving to the men’s side, Bush led the ORU women’s team from 2007-2012. That same year the team set records for most shutouts and least number of goals allowed. In five years in charge, Bush developed two Conference Newcomer of the Year Award winners along with three Academic All-Americans and numerous other all-conference players. In 2012 the team went on to win 12 games which stands as the 2nd most in program history. Bush led the women to some of the biggest wins in history gaining national recognition. Before leading the women’s program Bush served as first assistant coach in the men’s soccer program. Bush quickly put his mark on ORU Men’s soccer leading them to 5 consecutive conference tournaments. The program went on to win a conference championship and achieved the most wins in program history.  In 2004 he helped the program to another first as they were ranked in the top 25. During his time on the men’s side at ORU the program produced numerous all conference players and several players went onto the professional ranks upon graduation. Bush holds his USSF B National License and has received Master’s Degrees in Non Profit Management and Business Administration. Bush resides in Jenks, OK with his wife Rachel and their two sons Ryan Paul JR (RJ) and Noah.

Brian McCurdy joined the ORU men's soccer staff in July 2018 after a stint as a volunteer assistant coach at the University of Tulsa in 2017. McCurdy coached for two seasons at Bacone College (2015-16), posting a 12-18-1 overall mark and advancing to the Sooner Athletic Conference tournament in 2016. Leading Bacone in 2016 to the first winning season in 12 years. Prior to Bacone, McCurdy served as the Head Coach at Union High School (2014) and Bixby High School (2009-14), leading his teams to the state playoffs in five of the six seasons. McCurdy also served as an assistant coach with the Tulsa Athletics (2014-15, 2017-2018), which are a member of the NPSL. McCurdy was a four-year letterwinner at Tulsa (2003-07), starting in 53 of 66 career contests.  He tallied two goals and five assists for nine points, while attempting 34 shots from his midfield position.  During his career, TU won the 2007 Conference USA Championship and advanced to the NCAA Elite Eight during the 2004 season before falling to eventual National Champion Indiana. McCurdy has a USSF National D License.  He earned his bachelors degree in communication from Tulsa in 2007.

John Woodhead is a highly accomplished and driven coach who brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to the Oral Roberts University men's soccer coaching staff since joining the program in April of 2023. Hailing from Newcastle, England, Woodhead's journey in soccer has taken him across different levels of competition, shaping him into a versatile and knowledgeable coach. Before diving into coaching, Woodhead made his mark as a standout player at Northern Oklahoma College, where he earned his Associate of Arts and Sciences in Sports and Exercise. During his time there, he was a key member of the soccer team and was recognized for his exceptional skills on the field. In 2019, his dedication and talent were further acknowledged when he was named to the NJCAA Region 2 All-Region Soccer Team, a testament to his hard work and leadership. Woodhead also earned an All-American status at Northern Oklahoma College. Building on his success at Northern Oklahoma College, he transferred to Oklahoma City University, where he continued to excel both academically and athletically. Over three seasons with the Stars, he accumulated an impressive 45 points, including 17 goals and 11 assists, earning him All-Sooner Athletic Conference honors. Woodhead graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, showcasing his commitment to personal and professional growth. Woodhead's coaching journey began to take shape during his time at Edmond North High School, where he served as an assistant coach for the varsity soccer team from January 2022 to August 2023. His contributions to player development, tactical planning, and team motivation were instrumental in the team's success during his tenure. Woodhead led the team to a state championship in 2023. In addition to his high school coaching experience, Woodhead also spent time coaching at the North Oklahoma City Soccer Club. From March 2023 to July 2025. Woodhead served as the Assistant and Head Coach at Tulsa Athletic. His time at the club was very successful. In his first season with the club, Tulsa Athletic historically beat cross town rivals FC Tulsa in the Lamar Open Cup. Taking the club to the 3rd round V MLS opponents, Sporting Kansas. This was the first time in the club's history reaching the third round of the competition. Soon followed the club's first ever National Championship. In the summer of 2023. Tulsa Athletic claimed the Heartland Conference Championship, Midwest Region Championship and were then crowned the National Champions. In 2024 with the club, Tulsa Athletic reached the2nd Round of the Lamer Open Cup. In July, Tulsa were crowned American Champions Cup Winners. 2025 saw the club again reach the 2nd round of the Lamar Open Cup. Woodhead currently holds a coaching position at West Side Alliance. These diverse coaching roles have provided him with valuable insights into player development across different age groups and levels of competition. Known for his work ethic, leadership qualities, and tactical acumen, Woodhead has earned praise from colleagues and mentors. Head Coach Michael Duroy of Northern Oklahoma College once referred to him as "one of the hardest workers and best leaders they have ever had in their program," highlighting his impact both as a player and a leader. Woodhead served as the graduate assistant at Oral Roberts University from 2023 to 2025. In July, 2025 saw Woodhead promoted to the Men’s Soccer Assistant coach. As Woodhead continues to channel his passion for soccer into coaching the next generation of athletes. His extensive playing experience, combined with his coaching acumen and dedication to player development, make him a valuable asset to the men's soccer program at Oral Roberts University.

Sergio Romero joined the Oral Roberts men's soccer program for 2025 season as a graduate assistant and was promoted to assistant coach ahead the 2026 season.  Romero brings six seasons of playing experience to Oral Roberts, including three undefeated seasons at Richland College (2019-2021), where he was a three-time national champion, an All-American, and a two-time team captain. Romero transferred to the University of Tulsa ahead of the 2022 season. While at TU, Romero was part of a Sweet 16 appearance and a No. 2 national ranking, earning All-Conference recognition.   “I am excited about Sergio’s promotion within the ORU Men’s Soccer program,” said Bush. “Throughout his tenure, he has elevated the culture of our program and consistently demonstrated that he is ready to help take ORU Men’s Soccer to another level. Sergio brings tremendous positive energy, professionalism, and leadership to our environment, and his experience winning multiple national championships while in America gives him a championship mindset that will greatly impact our players and staff. We believe Sergio will play a major role in helping us pursue the standards and vision we have established for the future of this program.”   Romero earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and administration from the University of Tulsa in 2024 and is currently working to complete a master’s degree in sports management at Oral Roberts.

Edgardo Mira was named to the Golden Eagles coaching staff ahead the 2026 season after serving as the sport performance coach for the 2025 season. Mira has deep ties to Oral Roberts, playing under Bush from 2012 to 2015. While at ORU, Mira was a member of the 2014 and 2015 All-Summit League First Team, the 2015 All-Tournament Team, and served as a team captain during his senior season. Mira went on to play professionally from 2016-2024 in Guatemala and El Salvador. He also appeared for the El Salvador national football team from 2017-2021.   Mira was a volunteer coach with the Golden Eagles women’s soccer program from fall 2024 through the summer of 2025 before serving as the men’s program’s graduate assistant sport performance coach ahead of the 2025 season.   “Edgardo is an obvious promotion within our culture and program. As one of the most decorated players in ORU history, along with extensive First Division professional experience around the world, he brings tremendous knowledge, professionalism, and credibility to our staff as Director of Player Development,” said Bush. “He understands the culture, has won championships here, and will help reinforce the high standards and championship mentality we want throughout our program.”   Mira earned a bachelor’s of science in health and exercise science from Oral Roberts in 2016, and a master’s of sports management in 2016.

Former Golden Eagles goalkeeper Mesquita returns to ORU as a graduate assistant for the program ahead the 2026 season.  Mesquita came to ORU in 2023 after two seasons at Western Texas College. In two seasons, Mesquita appeared in 24 games for the Golden Eagles, making 22 starts and logging more than 2,000 minutes of play. In 2025, Mesquita was named the Summit League Defensive Peak Performer of the Week after tallying nine saves against Massachusetts Amherst. He led the league with 3.90 saves per game and was named a 2025 All-Summit League honorable mention selection and to the league’s All-Academic Team.   “Joao Mesquita had a tremendous career at ORU and now returns to serve in an operational and video analysis role within the program,” explained Bush. “Joao is extremely organized, professional, and detail-oriented, and he understands both the culture of ORU Men’s Soccer and what it takes to compete at the highest level. I am extremely excited for him to join our staff, as he will elevate every area of the program he touches and continue investing into the future of ORU Men’s Soccer.”

Assistant coach at Oral Roberts Mens Soccer