About The Lens
Welcome to The Lens, where aspiring athletes receive expert digital evaluations to unlock their full potential. Our mission is to provide impartial and insightful assessments, helping players understand their strengths and areas for improvement. Through our unique process, we connect athletes with experienced college coaches who offer personalized guidance for their athletic development and recruitment journey.
The Lens Advisory Staff
At The Lens, our advisory staff facilitates player evaluations by connecting athletes with experienced college coaches. With a deep understanding of college athletics, they ensure athletes receive comprehensive, unbiased assessments to guide their development. Meet some of our advisory staff members below:
Marcus Kelcher
Marcus Kelcher brings over two decades of coaching experience to The Lens, with a distinguished career in developing and placing players in college programs. His journey in coaching began at Toro Soccer Club, where he served as Director of Coaching and Player Development from 2008-2010 and was named NSCAA Midwest Coach of the Year in 2008.
Ben Waldrum
Ben Waldrum is the Associate Head Coach of the University of Pittsburgh’s women’s soccer program, entering his sixth season with the team. Under his guidance, the Panthers have achieved historic success, including a top-10 national finish and an Elite Eight appearance in 2023. Waldrum has been instrumental in recruiting talented players and developing the team into a formidable contender in the ACC.
Andy Kaasa
Andy Kaasa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to The Lens as a seasoned coach and director in both college and youth soccer. With a background as a college coach, Kaasa has led teams to the major Tournament and has been instrumental in the development of numerous players who have gone on to play at the collegiate level.
Gibbs Keaton
Gibbs Keeton, a native of El Paso and Montwood High School graduate, became the head coach of UTEP’s women’s soccer program in December 2022. In his first season, he brought in 10 newcomers, and mentored three players to CUSA all-conference honors. Under his guidance, the team saw notable achievements both on the field and academically, with two athletes earning spots on the CUSA All-Academic Teams.
Meet the Owner
Mark Torres’ Early Involvement in Youth Soccer
Mark Torres began his journey in youth soccer in 1998, coaching and managing his younger sisters’ team. That first year, he assisted in bringing together a group of young players from across the region to ultimately travel to and play in the prestigious Orange Cup in Miami, FL, where they showcased their talent in front of college scouts. His first introduction to the college recruiting process came when he escorted his younger sister to Georgetown University on her official team visit, where she ultimately committed to play for the Georgetown Hoyas.
Transitioning from Coach to Soccer Parent
In 2010, Mark’s daughter entered the youth soccer system. With a deep-rooted passion for the game, he cherished watching his daughter play, grow, and develop within the U.S. Youth Soccer system. Having helped her navigate the college recruitment process, Mark witnessed the struggles and successes youth players face as they pursue recruitment opportunities. He also understands the delicate balance youth soccer coaches must maintain in providing constructive feedback to both players and parents.
Founding Nutmeg Sports Media
In 2015, Mark launched Nutmeg Sports Media, providing high-quality video services for sports parents. Since then, Nutmeg has grown and collaborated with prominent organizations, including ECNL, HUDL, Under Armour, Girls Academy, MLS Next, and the Developmental Academy. His extensive experience has placed him in key roles and discussions with club owners, directors, and staff, where he has contributed to the dynamic evolution of youth soccer in the United States.
The Inspiration Behind The Lens
The idea for The Lens stemmed from hearing countless stories from parents struggling to navigate the youth soccer scene and the college recruitment process. These challenges, along with the delicate balance youth club coaches must strike in guiding their players, underscored a need for a supportive resource.
Over the years, the U.S. youth soccer landscape has evolved, shifting from largely volunteer-led recreational programs with few club teams to a highly organized club soccer network. Parents increasingly view this involvement as an investment. Having been both a parent and a business owner in the soccer community, Mark has gained a unique perspective on both sides of the field, and he aims to help parents and players achieve their goals within this ever-evolving ecosystem.
Our Services
Elevate your game with unbiased assessments tailored to your skills