Gof Boyoko Appointed as UCLA Women’s Soccer Head Coach
Gof Boyoko has been named the head coach of UCLA Women’s Soccer, a significant appointment for the program. He takes over after serving as the associate head coach for two seasons. Boyoko has a successful track record, having contributed to the team’s national championship and two conference titles since joining UCLA in 2022.
Career Highlights of Gof Boyoko
During his four years at UCLA, Boyoko’s teams achieved an impressive overall record of 67 wins, 13 losses, and 9 draws, giving them a winning percentage of 0.803. In conference play, they posted a record of 33 wins, 5 losses, and 6 draws, boasting a winning percentage of 0.818. Under his leadership, the Bruins reached the NCAA Tournament in every season.
- 2022: Won the NCAA Championship.
- 2023 & 2024: Secured conference titles.
- 2024: Ranked first nationally in team defense with a 0.41 goals against average.
- 2025: Ranked second nationally with a conference-best 0.47 goals against average.
Boyoko’s coaching has been recognized by the United Soccer Coaches, who honored him and the UCLA coaching staff as the National and Pacific Region Staff of the Year in 2022. That season, he helped the team achieve a program-best 13-0 start and a record-tying 22 victories.
Player Development and Awards
Throughout his time at UCLA, Boyoko has been instrumental in the development of 21 players who advanced to professional soccer, both in the U.S. and internationally. Several of his players have received major conference accolades, including:
- Defender of the Year: Lilly Reale (three consecutive years).
- Freshman of the Year: Nicki Fraser (2024), Bella Winn (2025).
Boyoko expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the program, stating, “This Bruin family is strong, and together we have built a winning culture and tradition.”
Previous Coaching Experience
Before his tenure at UCLA, Boyoko was the associate head coach and recruiting coordinator at UC Santa Barbara from 2017 to 2021. He guided the Gauchos to multiple Big West Tournament appearances. Additionally, he coached at Santa Barbara City College, leading the Lady Vaqueros to their first Final Four appearance.
Boyoko’s coaching history also includes a successful period with the Santa Barbara Soccer Club, where he won two Surf Cups and a premier league title. His early playing career included highlights such as leading UC Santa Barbara in scoring as a senior and earning All-Big West honors.
Background
A graduate of UC Santa Barbara with a degree in Global & International Studies, Boyoko grew up in Paris, France. He has extensive playing experience, including time with renowned clubs like Paris SG and Lille OSC, as well as representing the French Youth National Team.
Boyoko is married to Rachel, and the couple has two children, Khai and Enzo. His leadership qualities and vision for the program are set to enhance the already elite standards of UCLA Women’s Soccer.
