Fernandes to bring International playing experience and extensive history in player development to propel ECNL and USL programs forward.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (April 20th, 2022) - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club today named Raphael Fernandes as Assistant Coach to the Charlotte Independence USL 2 Men’s soccer team and Boys ECNL National Program Coaching Staff. Previously, Fernandes was the Soccer Operations Head Lead Trainer at Toca Football and the Head Coach at United Futbol Academy.
“I am really excited to be part of a great club”, said Raphael Fernandes. “I can’t wait to share my knowledge and experience to help all players to improve every day to become a better player and human.”
Fernandes commitment in providing lessons to MLS players and the Women’s National team ensures our Boys ECNL and USL players are ready to take their next step in competitive training and apply it to the upcoming season. Besides his experience in player development, Fernandes also played the game professionally. In 7 years, he played for Novara Calcio (Italy), Operario F.C (Brazil), and MFK Ruzomberok (Slovakia). The ability to bring an international perspective will contribute to enhance the perspective the game is played. Soccer is a game of adaptability and playing for multiple clubs in different countries shows Fernandes willingness to adapt and build a foundation within each community.
“We’re delighted that Rapha has joined us at the Charlotte Independence. His playing and coaching experience adds a considerable amount of knowledge to our coaching staff”, said Chief Executive Officer Thomas Finlay. “He’s buttoned up in many areas, lots to learn as a coach like all of us, but Rafa has so much to give. An abundance of experience and knowledge. Looking forward to seeing him at work on the fields”.
Fernandes attended Marshalltown Community College and Southern Wesleyan University where he played for the Men’s soccer team for both schools. In 4 years, Fernande earned NJCAA Region XI Men's Soccer 1st and 2nd Team All Region, NAIA Southern State Athletic Conference All-Conference 2nd Team, NCCAA All-Conference 2nd Team, and was named Team Captain at both Marshalltown Community College and Southern Wesleyan University. There is no questioning that Fernandes is a leader of men. We are excited for him to showcase what true character development and help lead this team on the path to success.
Some fun facts about Fernandes are he speaks 4 languages, and played with players like Kaka, Alex (Chelsea defender), and Martin Obafemi (Nigeria National player, Inter, Newcastle, Seattle). His favorite quote is, “It’s not about being better than someone else, it’s about being better than you were the day before.”
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