Sara Smith is Charlotte FC’s first announced hire of 2021.

She joins the club on the academy side as the education and welfare coordinator. Her responsibilities will include in-person tutoring and serving as the bridge between players, parents and schools. She will also be responsible for the emotional wellbeing of academy players, with the intention of grooming well-rounded players.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be a member of the Charlotte FC staff,” Smith said in a statement. “I am beyond excited to use my unique experience to help our talented student athletes to be prepared for every future opportunity. I will do my very best to be a support to our students in their homes, schools, and classrooms.”

Smith’s responsibilities also include managing the academy’s Homestay Program—where players live with host families in order to participate in the academy. She will oversee current players in the program, as well as manage new applicants. Smith will also keep players involved in community outreach initiatives.

“We’re very excited to have Sara join our growing staff,” academy manager Dan Lock said. “Sara’s background in education, tutoring, college admissions and bi-lingual teaching makes her a perfect fit for this role.”

Smith’s background is in university admissions counseling. She also taught English as a foreign language and has teaching experience at schools in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Madrid, Spain.

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