Botello Faz Combines Rehab and Coaching While Back in San Antonio

In helping others, he might, in turn, be helping himself heal. Pato Botello Faz, a standout on the St. Mary's University Men's Soccer team from 2015-18, has returned to the sidelines this season as a volunteer assistant coach as he recovers from surgery on his ankle.

Botello Faz spent the 2023 season with Las Vegas Lights FC, a member of the United Soccer League (USL) Championship, after playing for Detroit City FC in 2021 and 2022, where he scored 17 goals in the two seasons.

He returned to San Antonio to rehabilitate and immediately reconnected with the Rattlers' Head Coach, Johnny Clifford. 

"He had a tough year last year in the USL with injuries," Clifford said. "Not only is he using time with us to get himself back to match fitness, but it is also a huge advantage to have such a legendary player back with us."

Botello Faz has taken the young forwards on the team under his wing, and fans can see the results. Sophomore Gael Gallegos has scored six goals in the first nine matches of the year, matching his freshman goal total with 12 fewer shots and 11 fewer matches than 2023. Gallegos currently ranks second in the Lone Star Conference with 0.75 goals per game. 

"I knew returning to Texas for my rehab was the right move," Botello Faz said. "I didn't know how much I would enjoy working with the next generation of Rattlers."

While at St. Mary's as a player, Botello Faz set the school's single-season record for game-winning goals with six in 2018. He is tied for fourth all-time and holds the school's Division II record for goals with 39 and the overall record for game-winners with 13. He also ranks in the top 10 in points (93), assists (15) and shots (184).

Upon graduation, Botello Faz signed with the Lansing Ignite Football Club, where he was named the LIFC Player of the Month in his first two months with the team after scoring seven goals in 18 matches. The team was a member of the newly formed USL League One but ceased operations following their inaugural season. He moved to the South Georgia Tormenta for the 2020 campaign, playing in 10 matches.

He hopes to return to the USL as early as January, so this stint on the sidelines will be short, but he isn't committing to it being his last one. 

"I hope I have a few years remaining playing at the professional level," Botello Faz said. "I definitely have an interest in coaching when the day comes when I can no longer play at the highest levels."