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​Vasco Nunes Ph.D. Technical Coach Director

Vasco Nunes – Co-Founder of SDMA T/A Halton Hawks FC | Technical Coaching Director

With over 30 years of international coaching experience, Vasco Nunes has built a distinguished career developing youth, provincial, and national-level soccer talent across three continents. A former professional player from South Africa, Vasco has coached extensively in Africa (South Africa), Europe (Switzerland), and North America (Canada), bringing a truly global perspective to player development.

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As Co-Founder of SDMA T/A Halton Hawks FC, Vasco plays a pivotal role in shaping the club’s technical vision and long-term player pathway. His qualifications include multiple advanced coaching licenses from both Europe and Canada, reflecting a deep commitment to continuous education and excellence in coaching.

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For more than 35 years, Vasco has been a dedicated advocate and practitioner of the Soccer Development Model (SDM), originally pioneered by the late Professor Horst Wein. In 2002, Vasco introduced the SDM and the Xcel Coaching® Model to North America, solidifying his status as a leader in progressive youth soccer training methodologies.

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In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Vasco has made significant academic contributions to the soccer community. He is the author of 22 scientific publications on youth development, three coaching books, and is a regular presenter of technical papers at international sports science and coaching conferences.

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Coaching Experience

• Former professional soccer player – South Africa

• Neuchâtel Xamax U17 (Swiss First Division Academy Coach) – Swiss Champions (1998/99)

• FC Colombier U15/U17 (Swiss Second Division Academy Coach) – Swiss Cup Winners (1997)

• Coaching experience in South Africa, Switzerland, and Canada

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Coaching Qualifications

• OSA C-License (2024)

• UEFA A License (2020 – Expired)

• UEFA B License (2012, 2014, 2015)

• OSA Goalkeeper Diploma (2022)

• FIFA Futsal Level 2 Diploma

• First Aid & CPR Certified

Vasco continues to be a driving force in youth soccer development, combining elite-level experience, innovative methodologies, and a lifelong passion for the game to elevate the standards of coaching and player growth at Halton Hawks FC