Braden Peters, a National B Licence coach, returns to the Okanagan as Director of Football for Pinnacles FC.

Braden, originally from Kelowna, brings 14 years of coaching experience to the role, most recently working as the Fundamental Phase Manager at Calgary Foothills FC, one of the top clubs in Canada. As Director of Football, Braden will play an active role to coach our teams and raise the Club’s overall coaching standard to the highest level possible across all our communities. With Braden’s arrival, our current head coach Tommy McGill will return to his passion of goalkeeping as he takes on an important dual role as Coach and Goalkeeper Head Coach.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Braden to Pinnacles FC,” says Technical Director Andrew Stevenson. “His passion for developing players, deep roots in the Okanagan, and proven leadership make him a perfect fit for where we’re headed as a club. Braden’s return is a huge win for our Okanagan community and our players.”

“Also, a special thank you to Tommy. He stepped up at a time when the Pinnacles really needed an experienced, steady hand with coaching and community outreach. We’re very fortunate that Tommy will stay within the Pinnacles fold and continue to provide his coaching leadership to our players”, says Andrew.

It all begins with soccer
Braden’s passion for the game started early, growing up in Kelowna and playing across all levels of the local soccer landscape — COYSA, TOYSL, Super Y League, KMSL, and eventually the PCSL. That passion quickly translated into coaching, starting at the age of 16 with Soccaskool, running community camps and academy sessions. As Soccaskool evolved into Okanagan FC, Braden stayed deeply involved, helping build the club from the ground up as a full-time staff coach.

“Those seven years at OFC really shaped who I am — both as a coach and a person,” says Braden. “From running programs and coaching high-level youth teams to managing gear, media, and even representing the men’s team as a player/coach — I got to experience all sides of a club.”
One of Braden’s most cherished memories was helping the OFC men’s team win the PCSL league title undefeated — the first time since 1908 — all while representing the club with the next generation of players cheering from the sidelines.
In 2024, Braden transitioned to Calgary to join Calgary Foothills FC as the Fundamental Phase Manager, where he led all aspects of the club’s programming for 500–1,000 players aged U4 to U8. His role included overseeing player and coach development, managing phase operations, and building strong community partnerships across the city. Braden played a key role in curriculum design, coach education, scheduling, and ensuring high-quality programming across multiple training venues. Braden holds his Canada Soccer National B Licence and National Youth Licence, and is always looking to continue his development as a coach and leader.

History with Pinnacles FC
Braden’s connection to Pinnacles FC runs deep. “I started playing against Pinnacles teams when I was around 11, and it became one of those classic Okanagan rivalries. Every match in Penticton was competitive, intense, and full of passion — and those experiences really stuck with me.”
He adds, “Pinnacles always had a reputation for attracting the top talent in the region, and I’m excited to help bring that energy back — making the club a destination again for youth players across the South Okanagan.”

Coaching Philosophy
At the heart of Braden’s coaching is a strong sense of purpose and connection. “My role is more than just coaching — it’s about leading, mentoring, and supporting young people through the game,” he explains. “I want to create an environment where players love showing up, where they’re challenged, but also supported in becoming the best version of themselves — both on and off the pitch.”

He believes in building resilient, respectful, and honest individuals, emphasizing the process over short-term results. “When adversity comes, we face it together. We don’t shy away from hard moments — we learn from them.”

Passion for Soccer and Community
For Braden, soccer has always been deeply connected to community and identity.

“The Okanagan is home — and the soccer community here feels like a second family. I care deeply about giving back and creating more opportunities for young players than I had growing up. That’s what drives me.”

He sees his role not just as a coach, but as someone who can inspire the next generation. “This community raised me — and now I’m grateful for the chance to pour that experience and energy back into it.”

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