T
Vasco Nunes Ph.D.
Technical Coach Director
Vasco Nunes, alongside Ms. Toni Marin, is a founding member of SDMA T/A Halton Hawks FC and is widely recognized as a leading expert in youth soccer coaching. With over 30 years of coaching experience across three continents, he has worked with youth, provincial, and national teams at various competitive levels.
A former professional soccer player from South Africa, Vasco has coached in Africa (South Africa), Europe (Switzerland), and North America (Canada). He holds multiple coaching licenses from both Canada and Europe, reflecting his extensive expertise in player development.
For the past 35 years, Vasco has been deeply involved in the research, development, and implementation of the Soccer Development Model (SDM), originally designed by Horst Wein. In 2002, he led the introduction of the SDM and Xcel Coaching® Model into the North American soccer market, further establishing his reputation as a pioneer in modern youth training methodologies.
Beyond his practical coaching experience, Vasco has also contributed significantly to the academic side of the game. He has authored nine scientific articles on youth coaching, written three coaching books, and presented technical papers at various sports science and soccer conferences worldwide.
Coaching Experience
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Former professional soccer player (South Africa)
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Coaching experience across South Africa, Switzerland, and Canada
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Switzerland – Neuchâtel Xamax (U17, 1st Division Academy Coach) – Swiss Champions (1998/1999)
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Switzerland – FC Colombier (U15/U17, 2nd Division Academy Coach) – Swiss Cup Winners (1997)
Coaching Qualifications
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OSA C-License (2024)
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UEFA A License (2020 – Expired)
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UEFA B License (2012, 2014, 2015)
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OSA Goalkeeper Diploma (2022)
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FIFA Futsal Level 2 Diploma
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First Aid / CPR Certified
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Vasco Nunes continues to be a driving force in youth soccer development, bringing a wealth of experience, innovative coaching methodologies, and a deep passion for player growth to Halton Hawks FC.