USSF 'A' License
Ussf youth license
Thomas has been living in the States since 1989 in what he calls his ‘adopted country’. A successful youth career in Scotland saw him playing with the Celtic Boys Club for six years as well as being selected for the Scotland Schoolboys International Team. He participated in soccer tours of France, Holland and America with the Celtic Boys Club, were these opportunities afforded him the chance to witness and experience other soccer environments and cultures. When offered the chance by Wake Forest University to study and play in the States, it was a natural decision. Graduating with degrees in Economics and Political Science and under the guidance of Walt Chyzowych and Jay Vidovich, he was a two-time captain, MVP, All-ACC and All-South Selection at Wake Forest. It was during this time he was able to absorb a learning and teaching environment that still holds to this day the foundation of his coaching philosophy. After a five year professional career, Thomas began coaching on a full-time basis.
His first coaching experience after playing was with the United Quest Soccer Club in Atlanta, GA. Working as a staff coach for all ages and levels, he was able to experience the true diversity of youth soccer. “This was a time in my coaching development that I was able to work on my skills as a teacher and develop a personal philosophy towards coaching and the approach used – I learned a tremendous amount from others there and still have many good friends to this day”.
After a few years with the Quest, Thomas accepted the first ever position of District Coach for Georgia State Soccer Association. For South GA clubs, Thomas was responsible for ODP, coaching education, coaching development and overall club and league development. “This was such an invaluable time for my coaching and learning experience, working in close proximity with Jacob Daniel, the DOC for GA Soccer. As a coach we always talk to players about developing and getting to the next level, as coaches we need to follow the same path. My time at GA Soccer was an invaluable learning experience from Jacob that I will never forget; it helped me develop to the next level for coaching.”
After three and a half years with GA Soccer, Thomas then accepted the position of Executive Coaching Director at the New Orleans Soccer Academy. During his time there the Academy garnered 8 state championships, 2 regional semi-finalists spots, 4 quarter-finalists, 3 RPL champions and one US Club regional champion in a span of 21/2 years.
Joining the Carolina Rapids (called North Mecklenburg Youth Soccer Association at the time) in January, 2006 as Executive Director, he is “enthusiastic and excited about the possibilities and opportunities that lay ahead in developing the club to the next level”.
As Executive Director he is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the club. As a coach you will see him on the field working with all Carolina Rapids players.
Thomas lives in the Lake Norman community with his family.