CHARLOTTE — Devon Manifold has been appointed Head of Performance for Charlotte FC’s Academy, the club announced on Friday.
Manifold is a strength and conditioning specialist who will aim to maximize athletic potential within the academy. He will play a crucial role in athlete physical development, by bringing greater focus to efficiency in movement, injury prevention and game preparation strategies.
Equipped with a Masters of Science In Education from the University of Miami, Manifold also offers a wealth of experience in his field at MLS and USL levels.
“We are thrilled to have Devon on board at Charlotte FC,” says Technical Director Marc Nicholls. “His knowledge and expertise will greatly contribute to the development of all our young players. We are already beginning to see the benefits of his work.”
Performance coaching is crucial to the success of a top-level academy, where a wide range in ages and stages of physical development necessitate a bespoke approach to conditioning. Manifold will provide individual training plans and add a video component to the players’ continuing soccer education.
“Having worked in and played other sports, Devon brings a variety of experience to this role,” says Charlotte FC Academy Manager Dan Lock. “Performance coaching plays a major role in modern youth development. Devon will give our players the edge in terms of biomechanical education and individual physical development.”
Manifold’s athletic performance experience and qualifications are complemented by his status as a three-sport athlete: in addition to playing Academy-level soccer, he also excelled in Varsity wrestling and football.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this MLS expansion in a fantastic city with avid sports fans,” says Manifold. “I’m excited to bring my expertise in sport performance and athletic development to the club and I’m dedicated to developing our players into top class footballers.”
