Congratulations, Coach Velko!

CUMMING, GA (APRIL 30, 2021) United Futbol Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of Velko Iotov as the new Academy Director (AD) of the Forsyth branch of UFA. Velko will take over the AD responsibilities from Gaucho Pinho who will be stepping away from the position to focus on his primary responsibilities at the club as Facilities Director and Tournament Resources Development.

Velko’s resume is undoubtedly one of the most impressive in the league. Following a spot on the U16 Bulgarian National team, he was also a part of the U19 Olympic team. A member of the 1994 Bulgarian World Cup team that reached the semi-finals, Velko has also played for RCD Espanyol de Barcelona of La Liga and Newell’s Old Boys of Argentina. After two years with the Charleston Battery, he joined the Silverbacks in 2002. Velko's professional career of 18 years playing at the highest level in soccer is impressive, winning championships in Bulgaria, Spain, Argentina and the USA, a total of 8 major trophies.

Coach Velko has coached as a professional coach of ECNL, Developmental, Classic, and Athena teams since 2005 and currently holds a USSF B License and Coerver Youth Diploma. His dedication to developing players makes a big difference in the Atlanta area. His hard work has brought teams to play in ECNL, National League and Regional competitions as well State Cup finals and many other major tournament competitions.

“Velko is a natural leader and has been an instrumental part of UFA’s story. He not only understands the culture of our club, but has also played a key role in player and coaching development,” states Iggy Moleka, UFA Executive Director of Soccer.. “Throughout his time with the club, he has continued to step-up and succeed in all positions he has taken on and he is an excellent testament to the talent we have within our organization."

Please join us in congratulating Coach Velko Iotov on this promotion.

Don, Iggy, Deo and Gaucho