Columbus Welcomes International Soccer Coach

Some might feel that Columbus might be a bit small. Maybe even that it lacks connection to the outside world. In a direct repudiation of these ideas is the poaching of an international talent in soccer to become the next head coach of the Columbus Rapids. The man to lead us forward comes to the Fountain City by way of Sydney, Australia and is South African by birth. 

Rafique Hassim will lead one of the most vibrant and diverse sports organizations in the United States into their second year. He has experience as a strength and conditioning coach for Western Sydney Wanderers FC and has played professionally across South Africa and the US. In addition to coaching both the men's and women's teams, he can and will be playing anywhere in the attacking front three, so Rapids fans can expect exciting, dynamic, attacking play. He will be taking the pitch with the Rapids men this season while also leading the bench for both the men's and women's teams. One of his stops will be familiar with United States fans. He played for the Atlanta Silverbacks in the United Soccer League in 2007 and 2008. Columbus will look to shape the teams recruitments around Hassim's soccer philosophies and talents. You can expect even higher aspirations from the growing tide of the Columbus Rapids.