Cody Russell was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, and graduated from Bradley University in 2008 with a BS in History. He played soccer at the highest level for 18 years, beginning with Sereno Golden Eagles, where he was part of teams that won 7 state championships and 4 Regional Championships, made 3 National Championship appearances, and finished as national runners-up twice. He was also selected to the Region 4 Regional Team in 2003.

Cody continued his playing career at the collegiate Division I level, competing for Bradley University and later Grand Canyon University. At Bradley, he was part of two Conference Championship teams and an Elite 8 appearance against Ohio State. His accomplishments earned him induction into the Bradley University Hall of Fame.

His coaching experience includes CCV U9 Girls, Eagles Landing Middle School Boys Soccer, and West Boynton Middle School Boys and Girls Soccer. Across these programs, Cody has helped develop teams to multiple Division and District Championships. As a coach with Dragons Elite Athletics, he brings his extensive playing experience and commitment to player development to the next generation of soccer athletes.