The Team that drives us

RFC Football Academy | Faculty

Integrating Academics with Innovative and Professional Football Training

Our Technical Director, Marco, is a seasoned and committed professional with UEFA and AFC licenses, bringing over 25 years of football management experience to Rebels FC & Academy. He has extensive C-suite experience in managing football teams and developing programs to optimize individual and collective performances.

As a player, Marco has competed at the highest levels, representing prestigious clubs in Brazil and Europe. He is known for developing successful training methodologies, both internationally and with Indian football clubs and academies. Marco specializes in team development, using motivational techniques to enhance training and educate athletes and coaches at all levels. A firm believer in instilling pride and ethics through team sports, Marco is dedicated to mentoring individuals to reach their full potential. An NRI, he is passionate about giving back to his country of birth and contributing to the growth of football in India.

Marco

Technical Director

Marco brings over 25 years of dynamic coaching experience to Rebels FC & Academy. As a former Technical Director, he has been instrumental in crafting and nurturing youth football programs that have produced successful professional players globally. Under his guidance, teams have clinched state championships and secured numerous youth football tournament victories. Marco's single-minded dedication to the sport and enhancing player performance has been the driving force behind the development of players who excel in the professional arena.

Credentials
• AFC 'A' License
•  UEFA 'B' License
• Specialized in High Performance coaching (U18-U23)
• Qualified in three FIFA confederations: UEFA, CONMEBOL, AFC
• Expertise in Training Methodology, Scouting, and Football Management in Youth Football

Amit Jaiswal

Head Of Youth Development

Amit Kumar Jaiswal comes from a very experienced coaching background of having coached various senior elite athletes from different parts of Nation. Previously he has accepted challenges like Technical Director, Head of Youth Development and Head Coach for various academies and clubs. He has been part of various reputed academies and clubs such as Minerva Punjab FC, Boca Juniors FS India, Madan Maharaj Football Club, Santosh Trophy(Jharkhand). He had worked across all age groups team, from grassroots to youth and from elie youth to senior professional football. Its been decade long he's building successful athletes and teams across the country.

Credentials
• AFC 'A’ License
• FIFA Youth Coaching course
• Lifesaving Services in First Aid/CPR/AED

Ajay A Kumar

Football Specialist

Ajay A Kumar, with 8 years of coaching experience, holds an AFC C License and is pursuing a UEFA C License. Certified in IPSO Scouting, USSF Grassroots, and Football Analytics, he also has a Diploma in Sports and Exercise Science and a B.E. in Chemical Engineering. Ajay has coached at Salgaocar FC, Gameday Academy, and PASS Collective, and currently coaches the U-18 and Reserve teams at Luca Soccer Club. He focuses on empowering players to find solutions, promoting adaptability and critical thinking. Ajay's achievements include promoting 11 players to the senior team and leading the U-18 team to a Youth Soccer League Championship. His innovative approach and strategic insights drive success at Rebels FC & Academy.

    Key Achievements:
  • Championship Success: Led the U-18 team to victory in the Youth Soccer League Championship and contributed to the senior team’s runner-up finish in the Birat Gold Cup in Nepal.
  • Player Development: At Luca Soccer Club, Ajay facilitated the promotion of 11 players from the youth and reserve squads to the senior team within two years.
  • Women's Football: Coached the BITS-Pilani Goa Women’s Team to win Spree 2017 and secure a runner-up position in Arena 2018.
Credentials
• AFC 'C’ License
• UEFA 'C’ License
• Certified in IPSO Scouting,USSF Grassroots, and Football Analytics

Maiterya Joshi

Football Specialist

With 11 years of coaching experience in the UK, India, and the US, Maiterya Joshi excels in football coaching. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Football Coaching and Performance and a UEFA B License. Maiterya's athlete-centered philosophy fosters independence and critical thinking in athletes. Specializing in skill acquisition, his work on Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and high-performance analysis translates theory into practice. He has guided players to top clubs like Cardiff City FC and Swansea City FC and has contributed to soccer schools in Mumbai and coach education in Southern California.


Key Acheivements:
  • Coach Education: Developed regional programs for AYSO coaches in Southern California.
  • Mentorship: Helped coaches complete AFC B and C qualifications
  • Grassroots Impact: Enhanced coach education programs for UKIS with AYSO.
Credentials
• BSc (Hons) in Football Coaching and Performance (First Class Honors)
• UEFA B License
• Developed a Periodised Skill Acquisition Framework for Specialist Coaching
• High-Performance Analysis Specialist
• Sport-Specific Performance Psychology Expert

Arick Thapa

Football Specialist

Arik Thapa brings a fresh and enthusiastic approach to coaching with his AFC C-License, AIFF-D License, and Blue Cubs Certificate. With a background in both playing and coaching, Arik is dedicated to fostering football talent. Arik has 10 months of coaching experience at Rebels FC Academy, 4 months at Corbett FC, and 6 months of volunteer coaching in his hometown. He specializes in coaching grassroots kids, particularly beginners, creating a nurturing environment. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, determination, and sportsmanship, focusing on developing technical, tactical, and psychological skills. Arik aims to instill a love for football and help players reach their potential.

    Key Achievements:
  • Grassroots Impact: Established a free coaching program in his hometown.
  • Player Development: Key role in developing young players at Rebels FC Academy.
  • Community Engagement: Promoted sports and healthy living locally.
  • Mentorship: Guided young footballers on and off the field.

Known for his passion and dedication, Arik Thapa is an invaluable asset to Rebels FC & Academy. Join us to benefit from his expertise and enthusiasm driving our players' success.

Credentials
• AFC C-License
• AIFF-D License
• Blue Cubs Certificate

Redeem

Goalkeepers Specialist

Redeem Coach brings passion, dedication, and strategic thinking to Rebels FC & Academy. With an AIFF D License, AIFF E License, and Blue Cubs Certificate, he excels in nurturing young talent. 

Redeem has coached at the District Sports Association Chandel for 2 months and Kagaly Football Academy for 2 months. Currently, he has 4 months of experience at Rebels FC as a grassroots and interim goalkeeper coach. 

His coaching philosophy focuses on empowering athletes, fostering growth, creativity, and resilience. Specializing in goalkeeping, he enhances goalkeepers' technical, tactical, and mental skills through personalized training. 

Key Acheivements
  • Grassroots Development:Coached and developed young players.
  • Goalkeeper Training:Improved goalkeepers' performance.
  • Community Impact:Contributed to grassroots football growth.
  • Team Success:Ensured smooth operations as interim goalkeeper coach.

Redeem’s positive energy, strong communication, and strategic thinking make him an invaluable asset to Rebels FC & Academy. Join us to benefit from his expertise and passion driving our success.. 

Credentials
• AIFF D License
• AIFF E License
• Blue Cubs Certificate

N B Raghu Rai

Football Specialist

N B Raghu is a highly accomplished football coach known for his ability to inspire and empower players. His strategic expertise has led teams to victory in prestigious leagues like the "Hero Elite Youth League" and "BC Roy Trophy" with Minerva Punjab FC. He's also seen success with BOCA Juniors FSL in the "Malaysia Borneo Cup." Raghu's mentorship has propelled players to leagues such as the ISL and I-League, showcasing his dedication to player development. With a wealth of experience and passion for the game, he continues to shape the future of football through his coaching prowess.

Credentials
• AIFF 'D' License
• AIFF Grassroots Leaders Course
• BBFS Coaches Workshop

Support Team


Dr. Mohammad Fayz

Injury Management and Rehab Specialist

Mohammad Fayz is a highly qualified professional at Rebels FC & Academy, specializing in injury management and rehabilitation.
With a BPT and certifications including CDNT, CIASTM, CMT, CKTP, s   C Level 1 from ACE and ASCM, and a FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine, Fayz ensures the well-being and performance of our athletes. He employs comprehensive strength and conditioning programs to prevent and manage injuries, enabling players to return stronger. Fayz's attention to detail, communication skills, and commitment to athlete care make him an invaluable asset to our team. Join us to benefit from his expertise in injury management and rehabilitation, helping our athletes achieve peak performance.

Professional Qualification
• BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy)
• CDNT (Certified Dry Needling Therapist)
• CIASTM (Certified Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization)
• CMT (Certified Manual Therapist)
• CKTP (Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner)
• S and C Level 1 from ACE (American Council on Exercise) and ASCM (American Society of Sports Medicine)
• FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine

Mubashir Hassan

Physiotherapy Specialist

Mubashir Hassan, equipped with a BPT and certifications in CDNT, CMT, and CKTP, brings a wealth of physiotherapy expertise to Rebels FC & Academy. His experience at Rebels FC has refined his skills in diagnosing, treating, and preventing injuries, ensuring athletes stay in optimal condition. Mubashir's commitment to ongoing learning and compassionate approach make him a trusted member of our team. Join us to benefit from his top-notch physiotherapy care, enhancing athlete performance and well-being.

Credentials
• BPT (Bachelor's degree in Physiotherapy)
• CDNT (Certified Dry Needling Therapist)
• CMT (Certified Manual Therapist)
• CKTP (Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner)

Key Personnel

Karun M.A.

Co- founder Rebels football Club


With a keen interest in education and sports, Karun is a true example of how one can combine their passion and ambition to do greater good for their country. After completing Masters in Science in General Management at University of Manchester, he returned to India to take up a role in the top management of the India Education Society, under which there exists several secondary education intuitions. His dedication to youth development through sports and education plays a huge role in strengthening the core values of our football club and academy. As an official founding member of Rebels football club in 2013, Karun has spearheaded the club's operations from the get-go.

Syed Javid

Mentor and Financial Advisor


With an illustrative career spanning over the last 35 years, Javid is a veteran marketer with an expertise in project management and analysis, financial reporting and global marketing strategies. His career draws exposure from several industries including plastics, toys, retail, manufacturing, real estate and tourism. Javid is a passionate entrepreneur with several companies under his belt and also mentors and supports start-ups and entrepreneurial initiatives. 

Nikhil Mani

Managing Director


Nikhil Mani, our visionary Managing Director, leads with strategic foresight and innovative leadership. His commitment to excellence drives our company forward, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Under his guidance, we've achieved significant milestones and solidified our industry position. Nikhil's proactive mindset and dedication to results lead to cutting-edge strategies and operational efficiency. Join us as we continue to grow and prosper under his forward-thinking leadership.