The Future of High-Performance in U.S. Soccer: Integrating Sports Science, Coaching, and Context

Dr. James Malone is a BASES-accredited sport scientist and academic, and the founder of Malone Performance. With over 40 peer-reviewed publications in soccer and sports performance, he brings extensive expertise to his work, mentoring and consulting professional soccer teams and practitioners worldwide.  

Follow James on Instagram: @maloneperformance  

Dr Adam Grainger (PhD) has extensive applied coaching and research experience in high-performance sport, particularly in team sports.  As an accredited S&C Coach (NSCA CSCS), Sports Scientist (CASES HPSA), and peer-reviewed author, Adam’s current working role is Head of Physical Performance and Player Wellness at Chicago Fire FC (Academy and MLS Next Pro). 

Before joining Chicago Fire FC, Adam previously worked in professional rugby for 15 years (Saracens, London Wasps, Sale Sharks, and Ulster Rugby) across a variety of sports science and athletic performance roles. In December 2017, Adam was appointed Performance Director for Hockey Ireland, leading the women’s teams to a World Cup silver medal and a successful Tokyo Olympic cycle. 

David Tenney is the Director of High Performance for Atlanta United FC, bringing over 20 years of experience in elite performance across MLS and the NBA. Before joining Atlanta United, he served as the inaugural High Performance Director for Austin FC, led the Orlando Magic’s high-performance department, and spent nine seasons with Seattle Sounders FC, helping guide the club to the 2016 MLS Cup. 

A certified graduate of the Official School of Tactical Periodization, Tenney is widely recognized for integrating tactical methodology, sports science, and technology into cohesive performance systems. His work emphasizes player availability, evidence-based training design, and the alignment of medical, performance, and coaching departments. 

He holds a Master’s in Exercise Science and a PhD in Organizational Development & Leadership (2022), with research focused on leadership competencies in high-performance sport. 

Gavin Benjafield is an internationally respected Performance Director with more than two decades of experience building and leading elite high-performance programs in professional football.  

Currently the Performance Director for Los Angeles Football Club since its Inaugural Season, Gavin played a central role in the formation of the club’s performance and medical departments, shaping a unified interdisciplinary culture that has supported LAFC’s rise as one of Major League Soccer’s most successful modern clubs.  

His performance strategies have contributed directly to multiple MLS Supporters’ Shield titles, an MLS Cup championship, and deep runs in the Concacaf Champions League.