HPFC STAFF
Introducing our Highline Premier FC Staff
HPFC Leadership Team
James Conroy, Executive Director
At Highline Premier FC, James Conroy leads with a focus on building a development-driven, community-rooted, purpose-based club. As Executive Director, he oversees strategy, operations, budgeting, staff support, coach education, and player-family engagement.
James holds a BA from the University of San Francisco, a USSF National B License, youth development and DOC-level diplomas from United Soccer Coaches, and additional certifications through La Liga and the Spanish Soccer Federation. His approach blends academic training, global perspective, and practical experience across all levels of the youth game.
James sees every employee as a steward of HPFC’s mission. He works to ensure staff understand their role in delivering a consistent, inclusive, high-quality soccer experience anchored in the club’s core values of effort, accountability, discipline, respect, and creativity.
Under his leadership, HPFC has expanded programming, strengthened partnerships, improved curriculum alignment, and elevated both coach and player support. He aims to provide local players and families with a clear, connected, community-based soccer pathway built on strong teaching, strong values, and strong relationships.
Alex Dixon, Director of Coaching
At Highline Premier FC, Alex Dixon serves as Director of Coaching, bringing a blend of educational training, coaching experience, and leadership that shapes the club’s development pathway. His work centers on building thoughtful coaches, complete players, and a consistent, clubwide playing identity.
Alex holds a BBA in Sports Management from the University of the Incarnate Word, an MS in Physical Education with a coaching emphasis from Indiana State University, and a Washington State Teaching Certification. His coaching experience includes roles across club, school, and college environments, including Lonestar SC’s Girls Development Academy and programs at Seattle United, Indiana State University, and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.
With a USSF A License, National Youth License, and United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma, Alex leads coach education, curriculum development, and training standards. His work reinforces HPFC’s core values of effort, accountability, discipline, respect, and creativity, ensuring alignment between how we teach and how our players learn.
Alex supports HPFC’s mission by developing better players and better people, and by giving coaches the tools and clarity they need to help young athletes grow.
Colleen Harker, Director of Member Experience & Engagement
At Highline Premier FC, Colleen Harker serves as the Director of Member Experience and Engagement, focusing on creating a supportive, inclusive, and seamless journey for every family in the club. She oversees registration, communication, and clubwide family programs, ensuring each touchpoint reflects the community-centered spirit of HPFC.
Colleen brings more than 25 years of business experience across accounting software, marketing, IT services, and small-business operations. This broad professional background has shaped her strengths in customer experience, operations, and relationship management, all of which guide her work with players, families, coaches, and volunteers.
A lifelong soccer player, Colleen grew up competing in North Seattle and continues to play in adult leagues across the city. Her personal connection to the sport helps her create meaningful programs that support families as they navigate the youth soccer landscape.
Before joining the staff, she served four years on the FC Highline Executive Board as Vice President of Competition. In that role, she managed league participation, tournaments, team formation, and game-day operations, collaborated with coaching leadership on player pathways, and introduced club surveys to elevate family and coach engagement. She also secured the club’s first game-day jersey sponsor.
At HPFC, Colleen champions the club’s mission by building experiences that strengthen community, deepen family connections, and support every child’s development on and off the field.

Jake Zwaller, Programs Manager
As Programs Manager at Highline Premier FC, Jake Zwaller oversees the development and execution of the club's various programs, ensuring alignment with HPFC's mission to provide a comprehensive and community-focused soccer experience. Holding a US Soccer C License and multiple diplomas from United Soccer Coaches, Jake combines his technical expertise with a commitment to fostering player growth and engagement.
Mick O'Byrne, Operations Manager
Mick O’Byrne brings over 20 years of coaching experience to Highline Premier FC, along with a deep connection to the local soccer community. He holds a U.S. Soccer D License and multiple United Soccer Coaches certifications. A club parent and board member of the West Seattle Soccer Club, Mick is committed to supporting player development and community-driven soccer at every level.

