Thursday, April 24, 2025 (Anaheim, CA) – Cal South regrets to inform our members, and most especially our referee community, of the passing of Julio “Tranquilo” Davila. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and served as a mentor, coach, referee, league executive, and friend to so many over decades in the Southern California soccer scene.
Born in Guatemala, Julio began playing soccer at age five. He played in the Golden Soccer League until he had to stop due to a shoulder injury in 1983. He worked with AYSO La Mirada as a coach and referee while his children grew up sharpening their soccer skills, and served as an adult soccer coach for Los Rojos del Municipal, who were successful enough to play friendlies against some Mexican pro teams through 1990.
He served as the president of the Orange County Soccer League for nine years, vice-president of the independent adult California Soccer Association South, and with long-time referee association, Colegio de Árbitros de Fútbol de Los Ángeles (CAFLA).
Ultimately establishing himself as a USSF Referee Grade 7, Julio began his most prominent work as a Referee Liaison, beginning with CONCACAF and international matches in 1987. In 1998, he began working as Major League Soccer’s Referee Liaison for both LA Galaxy and Chivas USA.
And now, some remembrances from those who worked closely with him and befriended him over the years…
"Mr. Davila was a true gentleman and dedicated his life to servicing soccer. I remember coming out of the locker room at Dignity Health Center during tough MLS or international matches, and Julio would always have a calming smile and would say “tranquilo”. He reassured us with his grace that we were all professionals, and no matter the circumstances, we would be able to deal with anything as a team."
"I met Julio Davila in the early '90s at the Orange County Soccer League. From the first day I met him, he demonstrated his genuine passion, love, and care for the referee profession. "I have so many great memories with Mr. Julio Davila. A great experience I will never forget is my first friendly international game at the LA Coliseum. Mr. Davila knew that it was my first international game, and with his vast experience, he noticed I was a little nervous. When we were inspecting the field, he approached me and told me, 'Always Tranquilo. I’ll be here to help you.' He made me smile, and we started talking about the game. With only those two words, he made me feel very confident, and I ended up having an excellent performance! "Julio was a true gentleman, very professional, always willing to help in any possible way. I was very fortunate to work on so many games with him and was honored to be his friend. Un abrazo hasta el cielo mi querido bigoton."
"It’s hard to put into words the loss we feel with the passing of Julio Davila. How many referees can truly say they’ve left a lasting impact on so many? Julio was one of those rare individuals who seemed to be everywhere — on the sidelines of Galaxy games, at international matches across Southern California — not just because of his professionalism, but because of his heart. "He wasn’t just a colleague; he was a friend. He showed up for us, time and time again, not out of obligation, but out of a deep, sincere commitment to helping others grow in this craft. Julio believed in the referee community and gave his all to support it. His presence, guidance, and laughter will be missed, but his legacy will continue in every official he inspired. Rest in peace, Julio “Tranquilo”. Thank you for everything."
A Go Fund Me fundraising page has been established to help Julio”s family with funeral costs. If you wish to help them honor his life and legacy and see him off in the way he deserves, please visit this link to contribute:
