Blizzard is pleased to announce the appointment of two key individuals to our technical team; Craig Angus as Grassroots Technical Director and Diogo Raposo as Soccer Operations. The addition of these coaches reflects Blizzard’s commitment to expanding our technical team with qualified, experienced coaches who will provide high quality training to our players.
Alan Rickwood, Club GM stated, “Craig and Diogo are valued additions to our Club as we strive to enhance the Blizzard soccer experience. Blizzard is focusing on building a strong team to lead the Club, not just into the next season, but for years to come.”
Craig comes to Blizzard from Vancouver Whitecaps FC where he was head coach of the Mainland Academy Centre over the last four years. Craig was also assistant coach to the U14/U15 residency teams. Prior to Whitecaps, Craig was Lead Development Coach with the New York Red Bulls Regional Development Schools for six years. Craig is highly qualified with many credentials to his name including his UEFA A License (Part One), UEFA B, USSF C License and USSF National Youth License to name a few.
Craig stated, “I am very much looking forward to joining the Blizzard team to develop and grow the Club’s Grassroots program. My goal will be to create a comprehensive curriculum for the grassroots age group, with a focus on skill development but a priority on fun. I will also be creating program standards for our Grassroots coaches so our players receive the highest quality sessions and experience.”
Diogo Raposo will be also be a key member of our team responsible for Soccer Operations. In this role, Diogo will provide technical training, keeper specific training and coaching. He will also work closely with General Manager, Alan Rickwood, to assist with the operations and administration of the Club.
Diogo stated, “I’m thrilled to be expanding my role with Blizzard and I look forward to continue working with all the players and teams to further develop their soccer skills and understanding of the game. I’m also looking forward to broadening my experience by assisting Alan with the management and administration side of the club’s operations.”
Diogo holds his CSA National B License, United Soccer Coaches National and GK Diplomas. Diogo is the head coach of the Blizzard 01 Girls, who qualified for Provincials last summer. He is also head coach of our Blizzard Women’s Major League team who were promoted from the Women’s Premier division last fall. Diogo is currently the Canadian Soccer Association REX & Whitecaps Academy Southern Alberta Goalkeeper coach. Diogo led the Edmonton Internazionale SC U18 Girls to a Canada Soccer Club National Championship in 2016. Diogo has a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from the University of South Florida.
