About
Head Coach
James Vallance 

James brings over a decade of futsal coaching experience to Christchurch, backed by a playing career that began at age 12. He has worked with players across all age groups and development stages, most notably coaching every Canterbury United Futsal age-group team from U14 through to U19.

He is currently the head coach of the Canterbury United Futsal Dragons Men's squad and also the head coach of the University of Canterbury Men’s team aswel.

Most recently, James was selected as an assistant coach for the New Zealand Men’s National Futsal Team, the Futsal Whites — a recognition of his growing influence within the sport.

James blends a deep passion for futsal with strong technical knowledge, helping players develop, improve, and reach the next stage of their playing careers.

Coaching Experience

Current

  • Canterbury United Mens (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Top 3

 

2025

  • Canterbury United Mens (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Top 3
  • University of Canterbury (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Champions

 

2024

  • Canterbury United Mens (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Top 3
  • University of Canterbury (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Runners Up
  • Gold Coast International 
    Head Coach (Aus)
    Top 3

 

2023

  • Canterbury United Mens (NZ)
    Head Coach
    Champions
  • University of Canterbury (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Champions

 

2022

  • Canterbury United un19 (NZ)
    Head Coach
    Runners Up
  • University of Canterbury (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Champions 

 

2021

  • Canterbury United un19 (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Runners Up
  • University of Canterbury (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Runners Up

 

2019

  • Canterbury United un19 (NZ)
    Head Coach
    top 3
  • St Thomas of Canterbury (NZ)
    Head Coach
    Champions

 

2018

  • Canterbury United un19 (NZ)
    Head Coach
    Champions
  • St Thomas of Canterbury (NZ)
    Head Coach
    Top 5

 

2017

  • Canterbury United un16 (NZ) 
    Head Coach
    Champions
  • St Thomas of Canterbury (NZ) 
    Head Coach
    Top 10

 

2016

  • Canterbury United un16 (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Champions

 

2015

  • Canterbury United un16 (NZ)
    Head Coach 
    Champions