FC Tulsa Promotes Luke Spencer To Head Coach

FC Tulsa announced on Wednesday that it has promoted assistant coach Luke Spencer to head coach. Mario Sanchez, who previously served as both the head coach and technical director, will now focus exclusively on his role as technical director, continuing to shape the club's long-term vision and player development strategy.

Spencer, 33, has quickly emerged as one of the most promising coaching talents in the USL. Despite being pursued for head coaching positions by several other clubs, he chose to remain with FC Tulsa. A decorated coach and former two-time league champion player, Spencer’s promotion underscores the club’s commitment to building a competitive and successful organization both on and off the field.

"From the very start, we recognized Luke’s potential," said Alex Menta, sporting director and general manager of FC Tulsa. "His dedication to the club and drive for growth have been evident at every stage. It’s been inspiring to watch him transition from an exceptional player to a coach who commands respect and fosters confidence. FC Tulsa is proud to have him leading the team."

Spencer, who served as assistant coach under Sanchez last season, steps into the head coach role with a deep understanding of the team and a clear vision for its future.

"I’m honored to take on this new role as head coach," Spencer said. "I want to thank the owners and club leadership for their trust and confidence in me. My focus is on building on our squad’s strengths and creating a winning mindset from day one. We have a talented group of returning players and some exciting new signings already lined up for next season. I’m eager to get started and continue the hard work that defines our team. We’re committed to delivering the success our fans and community deserve. Although the season has just ended, we’re already working hard to make next year our best yet."

Spencer joined FC Tulsa in 2024, bringing with him valuable experience from Louisville City FC, where he held multiple influential roles. In 2020, he was named Director of Louisville City’s Boys Academy, where he quickly earned a reputation as a top-tier coach and mentor. His work there helped foster a culture of growth and excellence, with six academy players earning promotions to the first team, including Josh Wydner, who made a U.S. Men’s National Team appearance and earned a transfer to European powerhouse Benfica.

"I’m incredibly grateful for the dedication and hard work of everyone involved—our players, staff, fans, and owners," Sanchez said. "This past season was a big step forward, and I’m excited to continue being part of FC Tulsa’s growth. We’re poised for success, and I look forward to the future we are all building together."

Spencer's coaching journey began in 2018, when he briefly served as joint interim manager for Louisville City FC while still playing as a forward. In his short tenure, he led the team to a 4-2-1 record, showcasing his tactical insight and composure under pressure.

A key figure on the field as well, Spencer had a standout collegiate career as a forward at Xavier University, where he scored 29 goals in 70 matches. After earning Atlantic 10 First Team honors in his senior season, Spencer was selected 23rd overall in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft by the New England Revolution, making him the first Xavier player to be drafted.

Spencer’s professional career took him to USL Championship side FC Cincinnati, and later to Louisville City FC, where he won back-to-back USL titles in 2017 and 2018. In his first season with Louisville, he led the team with 10 goals and was named USL Cup MVP in 2018 after scoring the decisive goal in the final against Phoenix Rising FC.

Originally from Augsburg, Germany, Spencer developed his skills with Cincinnati United Premier before returning to Xavier in 2015 as the Director of Soccer Operations.