XI Soccer Academy

Our Guiding Mission

At XI, our mission is to inspire transformation through the beautiful game of soccer, on the field and beyond it. Rooted in the symbolism of the number 11, XI reflects the harmony between individual commitment (“I”) and collective unity (“X”), reminding us that when we each give our best, we uplift the team, and when the team thrives, we all succeed.

We believe in the power of soccer to shape not only athletes but extraordinary human beings. Through every drill, every match, and every moment of challenge, our academy fosters discipline, humility, and a deep sense of respect—for self, for others, and for the game. We champion the idea that true greatness is not measured by personal accolades, but by the strength of the community we help build.

Our purpose is to develop skilled, confident players who lead with heart, act with integrity, and understand that their effort on the pitch echoes into every corner of life. At XI, we grow together one player, one lesson, one act of courage at a time, because when individuals rise, communities rise with them.

Coaching Experience & Philosophy

The Journey Begins

My coaching journey began in Wilmington, North Carolina, where I immersed myself in the youth development programs at the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina. Over the years, what started as weekend volunteering quickly evolved into a deeply meaningful vocation. I’ve had the privilege of coaching hundreds of players across all ages and skill levels, from energetic toddlers taking their first steps on the field to high school athletes chasing collegiate dreams, and even adult recreational players rediscovering their love for the game.

Impact and Growth

I’ve coached boys and girls, men and women, each with their own story, ambition, and spark. And it has been one of the greatest honors of my life to witness so many of these players go on to accomplish incredible things, not just in athletics, but in life. Many of my former students are now Division 1 athletes, while others have become doctors, lawyers, educators, military officers, and honorable contributors to their communities. To know that soccer played a role in shaping their path, even in some small way, is a source of deep pride and purpose.

The Genesis of XI

During this time, I also began laying the groundwork for what would eventually become XI. Originally launched as Cardio with Carlos, the program started as a grassroots fitness and endurance training initiative. As it grew, so did its mission. It became clear that what we were building went far beyond drills and conditioning. We were creating a culture of growth, a community of support, and a space where individual effort and collective unity could transform not only players but people as well.

My coaching philosophy has always been grounded in the belief that success on the field must be matched by integrity off of it. That means instilling discipline, humility, teamwork, and respect which are values that extend far beyond the game. The time I spent at the YMCA shaped me as both a coach and a man, teaching me that the most meaningful victories aren’t measured on a scoreboard, they’re reflected in the lives we touch.

Today, at XI, I bring all those experiences with me. Every session is an opportunity to not only build stronger athletes, but to help shape the next generation of leaders, role models, and changemakers one player at a time.