Rafael Simoes offcially joined the Nova Southeastern women's soccer program as its newest assistant coach on July 14, 2021.
Simoes joins the staff following previous stints at NCAA Division I Marshall and Ohio.
“This opportunity means the world to me,” expressed Simoes. “I fully believe Coach Moore and I can win a National Championship with the infrastructure that NSU provides us. An advantage is that we have similar styles of play, and I think we are both focused and motivated to keep pushing the program to new heights. I am really excited to start this new chapter in my coaching career with such a prestigious program. I am tremendously grateful to Coach Moore for believing in me to help him take NSU to the next level.”
Simoes owns experience both as a men’s coach, and on the women’s side, most recently working as a member of Ohio University’s women’s staff from 2019-20. Prior to his stop at Ohio, the Brazilian spent 2018-19 with the reputable Marshall men’s program, in addition to serving as head coach within the West Virginia Olympic Development Program, where he won State Cup titles in 2019 and 2021.
“I always bring a desire to work hard and remain hungry and focused,” Simoes added. “My experience as both a collegiate athlete and coach have prepared me well for this opportunity with such an exceptional program. I have had the privilege to learn from some of the best, including my mentor Coach Chris Grassie of Marshall Men’s Soccer. I believe my experiences as a tactical player from Brazil will bring a unique playing philosophy to NSU. Coach Moore and I share similar experiences in terms of our backgrounds, and with our combined skills, I believe we will be well positioned for a national title.”
As a player, Simoes helped lead the University of Charleston to four Final Four appearances in as many years, including a pair of National Runner-Up finishes in 2014 and 2016 before hoisting the National Championship trophy in 2017. During his four years at UCWV, Simoes' teams produced an overall record of 82-8-5.
“We're very fortunate to have Rafa joining the coaching staff,” said Moore. “His knowledge, drive and personality are all an excellent fit for our program. Rafa has proven he's a top assistant working with two national-championship coaching staffs in the past. He has proven that his local and domestic recruiting abilities are an asset to any program. Add in his tactical understanding of the game, and that’s what makes him a great asset to NSU.
On the field, Rafa brings a great playing background being a part of a national championship-winning team. I'm very excited to add him to the program and look forward to working together alongside him.”
Simoes owns a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and two Master’s degrees in Physical Education and Coaching, as well as in Sports Science. He holds a USSF National C License.
Simoes is marred to his wife, Rebecca.
What Others Are Saying:
Chris Grassie, Marshall Men’s Soccer Head Coach (2020 NCAA Division I National Champion, 2020 NCAA Divison I National Coach of the Year)
“Rafa is a top-notch, up-and-coming, young coach. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him as a student-athlete and as an assistant coach. He has a real desire to learn and grow as a coach, and a clear desire to play his part in making a championship program at Nova Southeastern. Rafa has excellent connections and is a tireless recruiter. He is also one of the nicest human beings I know. He’s a real gentleman, and I’m proud to call him a friend as well as a colleague.”
Dr. David Carr, Vice-President of United Soccer Coaches
“Rafa Simoes has made a great transition from outstanding player to outstanding coach. He is dedicated to learning and taking his knowledge as a player, his commitment to professional development, and his ability as a coach to Nova Southeastern University.”
Ricardo Silveira, 2SV CEO and Co-Founder
“Congratulations to Coach Moore and NSU. Rafa is a champion, a quality individual, and one of the best young coaches in college soccer. Rafa’s experience as a player and tremendous work ethic will definitely put NSU in the national spotlight.”
