Ernando Novais brings over 24 years of coaching experience in Arizona at the regional, national, and to the collegiate level. Originally from Brazil, Ernando played college soccer in Brazil before pursuing a long-term career in coaching and player development in the United States. He first arrived in the U.S. as an international student at Arizona State University, where he now begins his new role—bringing his journey full circle.He has coached players across multiple age groups, with a strong focus on preparing advanced athletes for college soccer and professional pathways.
Ernando brings a proven record of developing players who have successfully transitioned to collegiate programs and professional levels of the game. He served Arizona through the Olympic Development Program (Region IV West) as a Head Coach and Goalkeeper Coach, working alongside respected leaders such as the late Austin Daniels, members recognized within the Black Soccer Coaches Hall of Fame, Andy Bonchonsky, and Karla Thompson, whose support and mentorship influenced his continued growth and pathway as a coach.
Ernando holds a USSF C License, United Soccer Coaches (NSCAA) Advanced Licenses, and National and Advanced NCAA Goalkeeping Licenses. He is a trilingual professional with an MBA in International Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
