Charlotte Independence Soccer Club Promotes Raphael Fernandes to Technical Director of Youth Development

August 20, 2024

Fernandes to provide considerate, attentive, and detailed development 

August 20, 2024 - Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Independence Soccer Club (CISC) promotes Raphael Fernandes to Technical Director of Youth Development. In his new role, Fernandes will oversee the development of U4-U10 youth players through technical and tactical skillsets. 


“Raphael’s new appointment underscores the club’s dedication to nurturing young talent. Focusing on the Zone 1 age groups—ages 4 to 10—is crucial, and having a dedicated individual like Rapha to lead this effort is incredibly exciting”, said Charlotte Independence Soccer Club CEO Thomas Finlay. “His vision for developing technical skills and tracking player progression is well-aligned with our goals. Rapha’s diverse background, from his Brazilian roots and professional play in Italy to his current role in the US, brings a rich, international perspective to the role. Additionally, Rapha’s reputation as an excellent team player and supportive staff member further enhances his suitability for this position.”


Fernandes joined Independence in 2022 where he worked within the Boys ECNL National programming. That summer, he joined the Charlotte Independence USL League Two pre-professional staff as an assistant coach. This past season, Rapha coached the Boys 2010 and 2011 ECNL Academy and was part of the Boys USL Academy 2023 National Championship run.


"I am truly blessed to work with what I love”, said Raphael Fernandes. “Soccer has been a part of my life since I was 4 years old, and I can say that everything I am today I learned from this beautiful game. I am happy to be a part of this club and even more excited to help create a strong foundation for all the kids here, fostering their development and bringing out the best in each of them."


In addition to his commitment to youth soccer and the community, Fernandes has an extensive playing career as a professional. In 7 years, he played for Novara Calcio (Italy), Operario F.C (Brazil), and MFK Ruzomberok (Slovakia). 


Fernandes also played at 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.


Certifications 

  • USSF “B” License 
  • Advanced National Diploma – United Soccer Coaches
  • Coerver Coaching Youth 1 & 2 Diploma
  • NSCAA Performance Analysis 
  • NSCAA Goalkeeping Level 1 Diploma 
  • NFHS/NSCAA Professional Development Certificate
  • NSCAA/USSF Futsal Mentor and Youth Coaching
  • NSCAA Special Topic Diploma: Attacking Transition and Counter Attacks
  • NSCAA Special Topic Diploma: Technical Training and Small Sided Games
  • NSCAA Special Topic Diploma: Maximizing Player Performance Using Technology and Science
  • NSCAA Special Topic Diploma: Technical Development of the Competitive Player
  • NSCAA Special Topic Diploma: Speed of Play

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