Kickova CoachES Series

Meet Coach Eric Portillo Setting the Standard for the Next Generation

In a space where development often gets diluted, Coach Eric Portillo brings clarity, intensity, and purpose. Every session is built with intent. Every detail matters.

This is not just training. This is a standard.

About the Coach

Eric Portillo is the owner of EP Training and co owner of The Lab Training. He currently coaches at DKSC and holds a USSF C License. Based in the DFW area, he works with athletes across all levels, from youth to high school, college, and professional players.

He is quickly establishing himself as one of the most driven and respected coaches in the local game, known for the work he puts in and the results his players carry onto the field.

Playing Background

Eric’s journey in the game began at a high level. He played for FC Dallas at the youth level and trained with C.F Pachuca’s youth academy in Mexico, gaining early exposure to elite development environments.

He also represented El Salvador at the youth national team level, competing internationally and building a strong foundation in the game.

His career later took him to Spain, where he spent time training with Palamós Academy, continuing his development in a competitive European setting.

Eric went on to play professionally in the first division of El Salvador, competing with Alianza FC and C.D Limeño. These experiences shaped his understanding of the game and the standards required to perform at the highest level.

Coaching Journey

For the past six years, Eric has been developing players across DFW, working with hundreds of athletes through one on one sessions, group training, and structured camps.

His sessions are designed to challenge players, sharpen decision making, and build confidence under pressure. Players do not just train with him. They evolve.

Training Philosophy

Eric brings a rare balance. Serious about the work, while creating an environment where players feel comfortable, confident, and motivated.

His focus is on consistency, attention to detail, and building habits that translate directly into real game situations. Every repetition has a purpose. Every session moves the player forward.

Working with Kickova

After discovering Kickova, Eric made the switch quickly. The balls became a core part of his sessions across all environments, from private training to group work.

His go to is the Kickova Magnus in gold, a ball he trusts personally during his sessions.

Product Feedback

For Eric, the difference is immediate. The texture, the touch, and the overall feel all reflect a high level ball built for serious sessions.

“These balls feel like the top tier match balls players are used to at the highest levels. The touch is clean, the consistency is there, and it elevates the level of every session. What stands out even more is being able to get that quality without overpaying.”

On the Field

From one on one sessions to full group environments, Kickova balls are used consistently in Eric’s training. Players get a true feel of the ball, allowing them to focus on performance, not adjustment.

The result is cleaner sessions, better touches, and more confidence on the ball.

Recommendation

“I recommend Kickova to any coach or player who wants premium quality that actually performs, without the premium price tag.”

Connect

Train with Coach Eric Portillo through EP Training or Training the Lab and experience what real development looks like when standards are set high from day one.