New Women’s Head Coach

Our women’s team has a new head coach - meet Francisco Souza!

Francisco Souza

Souza shared his excitement about joining the team:

I’m truly excited to be at Nanaimo United FC and to work with this amazing team. I see real talent here, and I’m motivated to help this group grow into something special. This season is about raising standards, building a clear identity, and competing with ambition from day one.

Souza was the Valedictorian of his coaching class in 2023 in Quito, Ecuador. He has experience coaching in professional environments in South America, including with C.D. Cumbre Alta, A.C. Deportivo Aragua (Serie C, third division), and C.D. El Nacional (Serie A, first division).

Souza was born in Canada but spent his youth in Ecuador. He has always wanted to return to Canada, so when he saw the opportunity in Nanaimo to work with older athletes in a standards-based league, he took a chance and applied. 

Team selection is underway, and we hosted our open tryout last Sunday. Souza was “happy to see how interested the players were.” 

I noticed that they feel a sense of responsibility to make a difference and announce that the island has football. I asked the ladies,“At this moment, what are you thankful for?” Their response: “We feel honored to represent the whole island.” They are hyped for the season. 

Again, welcome Francisco! Training starts this week for the ladies, and we look forward to watching the squad grow under your leadership.