Vito Higgins Returns to Shadow Staff

Thursday, January 22, 2026

The Spokane Shadow is thrilled to announce the return to the staff of Vito Higgins, a longtime coach in the greater Spokane / north Idaho community. Higgins returns as a member of the high school boys coaching staff.

The Hawaiian has been a staple in the community since arriving as a player to Gonzaga, where he played every minute of his last two seasons, advancing to the NCAA tournament as a senior in 2007 after a season in which he posted a stunning 0.71 GAA. Following a brief injury-shortened pursuit of a professional career that included a contract with the David Beckham-led LA Galaxy he returned to GU to embark on his coaching path that has included working for local colleges, clubs and the Spokane Velocity.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Vito Higgins into our boys high school program,” said Shadow General Manager Drew Williams. “His playing and coaching experience is truly another level, and very few people bring the depth of professional, collegiate, and elite youth experience that Vito does. From the pro game to Division, I college soccer to top youth environments, he understands what excellence looks like and how to build it daily.

“Vito will immediately elevate our boys environment by bringing a professional standard, clear expectations, and a player-first approach that focuses on both development and accountability. Our athletes will be exposed to a pro-level experience, not just in how they train and compete, but in how they carry themselves, prepare, and think about the game. We can’t wait to see the impact he’ll have on our players, our culture, and the future of our program.”

A former goalkeeper coach for the Shadow from 2013-15, Higgins most recently joined the Whitworth Men’s coach staff and was the Velocity goalkeeper coach for its first two seasons. Prior to coaching for the USL League One Velocity, he made his professional coaching debut as the Director of Goalkeeping for then USL1 side FC Tucson after serving as head coach of Tucson’s Pro Academy in 2021.

Higgins, though, has his roots firmly planted in the Inland Northwest, serving as goalkeeper coach for the Zags from 2008-2019 and then for North Idaho College from 2019-21 while also working for the Sting (then North Idaho Timbers/Thorns) from 2015-20. He also served as goalkeeper coach for the Shadow Women’s First Team during their inaugural WPSL season in 2019 and has served as a goalkeeper coach for the ODP West Region.

“I’m excited to return to Spokane Shadow and lead the U19 boys as we prepare them for the next stage of their careers,” said Higgins. “It’s a privilege to work with our local players, and our program will be built on high standards, strong culture, and consistent development every day. This city has given me so much, and I look forward to continuing to give back on the field and in the community.”

Higgins holds a USSF “C” License, a BA in Sports Management, and a Master’s in Sport and Athletic Administration.

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