WHO IS COACH CANTU
From backyard games at 12 years old to competing on the international stage, football has been a defining part of my life for over two decades. I began playing at 17 and went on to spend 16 years in women’s professional football as a quarterback, retiring at 33 after a career built on leadership, resilience, and a deep love for the game.
Alongside tackle football, I’ve played flag football for more than 20 years, also as a quarterback. In 2012, I had the honor of representing Team USA Women’s Flag Football in Sweden, where we earned a silver medal on the international stage—an experience that remains one of the proudest moments of my career.
This year, I’m entering an exciting new chapter through Next Play Sport Training, where I’m committed to developing the next generation of athletes. I currently coach the Golden Girls Elite 12U team and assist with the 10U team out of Spring, Texas, focusing on building confident, skilled, and disciplined players. My approach goes beyond the game—I’m passionate about teaching fundamentals, fostering leadership, and helping young athletes grow both on and off the field.
Football is more than a sport to me—it’s part of my story. It’s something I shared closely with my dad, who coached me throughout my journey until his passing in 2018. Those years shaped not only the player I became, but the coach I strive to be today.
Having seen the growth of girls flag football over the years, I’m excited to be part of its future. Through Next Play Sport Training, my goal is to create opportunities, build confidence, and help your daughter reach her full potential—both as an athlete and as a person.