The NC Courage Academy is proud to announce the appointment of Erwin van Bennekom as its new Academy Director, bringing one of the game’s most respected player development leaders to the club.

Van Bennekom joins the Courage most recently from NWSL club Kansas City Current, where he served as Head of Player Development, working across the first team and second team to design and implement individualized development plans and support a fully integrated player pathway. In this role, he collaborated closely with technical staff and leadership to enhance performance across all areas of the game, from technical and tactical growth to physical and mental development. 

“I’m honored and excited to join NC Courage Academy. Having worked in the NWSL, top collegiate soccer, and elite youth development, I’ve been fortunate to experience what high-level player development looks like at every stage of the pathway. I’m looking forward to working alongside our staff, players, and families to build on the strong foundation that’s been established and continue pushing the program forward by creating an environment that develops the habits, standards, and mindset needed to thrive at the collegiate and professional levels.” – Erwin van Bennekom

Prior to his time in Kansas City, van Bennekom was an assistant coach at Florida State University, helping lead the Seminoles to the 2025 NCAA National Championship. The program saw multiple All-Americans, All-Conference selections, and national award finalists during his tenure. 

He also spent six seasons as head coach at Indiana University, where he guided the Hoosiers to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in a decade while developing numerous All-Big Ten players and award winners. 

On the youth side, he has accumulated 10 years of coaching experience and served 3 years as a Girls Director of Coaching.

Earlier in his career, van Bennekom played a key role at Duke University, helping the program reach multiple College Cups and develop top-level talent, including future professionals. His experience also includes time in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), further strengthening his understanding of the professional pathway. 

As Academy Director, van Bennekom will oversee all aspects of the NC Courage Academy, focusing on building a clear and comprehensive pathway from youth soccer to collegiate and professional levels.

Van Bennekom’s appointment represents a major step forward in the club’s continued investment in elite player development and its commitment to building one of the top academy systems in the country.