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Lawrence Wiggins, President, Director of Soccer Operations
Rafael Armién, Grassroots Technical Director, First Team Assistant Coach
Rafael Armién, Grassroots Technical Director, First Team Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach – Blessed FC Vision
Born and raised in Panama City, Rafael Armién grew up playing soccer in the streets, crafting cardboard balls, and competing in neighborhood leagues. His talent and drive led him to represent the Instituto Nacional de Panamá, one of the country’s most respected schools.
A lifelong educator and coach, Rafael blends teaching and soccer to inspire discipline, teamwork, and purpose. After moving to the U.S., he earned his USSF Soccer Grassroots Licenses (4v4–11v11) and began coaching youth in and around Roanoke Rapids, NC.
Rafael’s coaching philosophy centers on intelligent, possession-based soccer with high-press defending — a style built on unity and relentless effort.
He is currently working on his coaching licenses ultimately pursuing a USSF B License and developing his personal project, Blessed FC – More than a team, a purpose.
Andres Solis, Academy Technical Director, First Team Assistant Coach
Andres Solis, Academy Technical Director, First Team Assistant Coach
From a small field in Ceibita Nerones, Honduras, to the sidelines of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, First Team Coach Andres Solis and Technical Director U13–19 has lived and breathed soccer his entire life. His journey began before he could even lace his cleats—playing in neighborhood matches by age 10 and joining competitive youth teams in Isleta, Honduras soon after.
From a small field in Ceibita Nerones, Honduras, to the sidelines of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, First Team Coach Andres Solis and Technical Director U13–19 has lived and breathed soccer his entire life. His journey began before he could even lace his cleats—playing in neighborhood matches by age 10 and joining competitive youth teams in Isleta, Honduras soon after.
Throughout his 20s, Coach Solis brought his dedication and skill to teams across Virginia and North Carolina, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic, leadership, and tactical understanding of the game. At 25, his passion expanded further when he discovered indoor soccer in Miami, a fast-paced version of the sport that sharpened his vision for team dynamics and player development.
Throughout his 20s, Coach Solis brought his dedication and skill to teams across Virginia and North Carolina, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic, leadership, and tactical understanding of the game. At 25, his passion expanded further when he discovered indoor soccer in Miami, a fast-paced version of the sport that sharpened his vision for team dynamics and player development.
Today, Coach Solis serves as the Head Coach of the Second Team, Academy Technical Director of Football Club Roanoke (FCR) and the Founder of Real Union, a competitive adult team based in Roanoke Rapids that competes regionally across North Carolina and Virginia.
Today, Coach Solis serves as the Head Coach of the Second Team, Academy Technical Director of Football Club Roanoke (FCR) and the Founder of Real Union, a competitive adult team based in Roanoke Rapids that competes regionally across North Carolina and Virginia.
Driven by a deep love for the game, Coach Solis is passionate about creating opportunities for players of all ages and backgrounds to grow both on and off the field. He believes in soccer as a tool for discipline, teamwork, and community connection, and works tirelessly to inspire the next generation to play with purpose, pride, and heart.
Driven by a deep love for the game, Coach Solis is passionate about creating opportunities for players of all ages and backgrounds to grow both on and off the field. He believes in soccer as a tool for discipline, teamwork, and community connection, and works tirelessly to inspire the next generation to play with purpose, pride, and heart.
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