CHARLOTTE, N.C. (May 19th, 2023) - Charlotte Independence Soccer Club is proud to announce the appointment of Michael Barroqueiro as the Mooresville Director. Barroqueiro will oversee the Mooresville Youth Academy and Mooresville Competitive Programs while also coaching within the program. 

With this appointment, the club announces that the Lake Norman program will be changing its location name to Mooresville, providing clearer recognition, and streamlining communication for its soccer program's activities.

To be a Head Coach at the Division I level takes time, commitment, and the ability to inspire those around you. There is no question that Barroqueiro has the communication skills and accolades to prove his value to the club. From 2017-2022, Barroqueiro was the Women’s Head Coach at The University of Delaware. During his tenure, he achieved remarkable accomplishments, including a 33rd-ranked National Recruiting Class, 7 All-CAA Award Winners, CAA Conference Tournament Semi-Finalist, the best regular season, and the highest conference tournament seed in program history in 2019. He also coached a Player of the Year, achieved the highest win total in 25 years, the 4th largest win improvement in the nation by 8+ in 2019, and led the team to the Colonial Athletic Association Quarterfinals in the second season.

"Mike is a fantastic coach and soccer mind. He has a track record of being a great recruiter and possesses the personality we are looking for to lead our programming in the Mooresville/Lake Norman area," said Director of Soccer Neil Roberts. "We are thrilled to have Mike on our staff and strongly believe he will be an asset to all our members and players."

Barroqueiro's coaching experience also includes serving as the Associate Head Women’s Soccer Coach at North Carolina State University from 2012-2017. During his time there, he was recognized as the NSCAA Southeast Region Coaching Staff of the Year and a National CSOY Finalist. He helped lead teams to a Top 25 Ranking in both the NSCAA and TopDrawer Soccer Polls. Other notable achievements include a Sweet 16 appearance, participation in the ACC Tournament, the best program record since 1995, a highest RPI ranking of #19, and victories over 7 nationally ranked teams in 2016, including #7 North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Barroqueiro's commitment to player development was evident as he coached players who earned spots on the All-ACC Freshmen team and All-ACC Academic Team.

"I'm unbelievably excited for the opportunity to join this amazing organization," said Michael Barroqueiro. "The Charlotte Independence has created a product that leads the way in our soccer landscape; a vertically integrated model that allows young players to grow through the system. As I took the time to identify what I wanted next in my career, the chance to work with a group of amazing people was my number one goal. I couldn't have found a better place, and I can't wait to get started."

Prior to his roles at Delaware and NC State, Barroqueiro was on staff at Iona University, College of Charleston, New Jersey Wildcats, and Rutgers University, each with notable program records and player accolades. Additionally, Erin Lykon, Director of Marketing & Branding, and Robyn Horner, Independence W League Head Coach & Girls Director of Goalkeeping, played when Barroqueiro was on staff at College of Charleston and Rutgers University.

Barroqueiro earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Rutgers University. He currently holds United Soccer Coaches Advanced National & National Licenses, as well as United Soccer Coaches Level l & ll Goalkeeping Licenses.

Barroqueiro is happily married to his wife Nichole, and they have 2 boys, Cooper (9) and Easton (7), and their dog Grover.