Founder & Head Trainer — Joshua Fender

Joshua Fender brings elite playing experience, professional-level training, and a lifelong passion for athlete development to Fender’s Soccer Academy.

A decorated collegiate soccer player at West Texas A&M University, Joshua earned multiple honors during his career, including Freshman of the Year, Offensive MVP, All-Conference, All-Region, and All-American recognition. He was named Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame Soccer Athlete of the Year in 2005 and finished his collegiate career ranked among the program’s all-time leaders in goals, assists, and total points.

Joshua remains etched in the record books with standout performances, including multiple multi-goal matches, top-ten single-season scoring totals, and record-setting shooting performances. His competitive edge and attacking mindset defined his playing career and now shape his coaching philosophy.

Beyond the college game, Joshua trained in Europe with several professional clubs, including Dundee FC, Vejle Boldklub, and AC Horsens, gaining firsthand exposure to international training methods and professional environments. He was later drafted by Houston in the 2006 Major League Soccer Supplemental Draft and went on to win a Premier Development League Championship with Laredo Heat in 2007.

Today, Joshua lives in Fort Worth, Texas, where he owns and operates Fender’s Fitness Training, a private performance training studio. With nearly two decades in the fitness and performance industry, he blends strength, speed, conditioning, and technical development to help athletes maximize their potential on and off the field.

Above all, Joshua is a proud father to three children—Hannah (11), Ellie (9), and Jacob (7)—and understands firsthand the importance of confidence, discipline, and long-term development in young athletes. His mission is simple: develop skilled, resilient, and confident players while fostering a lifelong love for the game.