Fairhope Soccer Club (FSC) is proud to announce the appointment of longtime player and coach Roberto “Tito” Rodriguez as its new Director of Coaching. A product of the Club himself, Rodriguez will oversee all facets of FSC’s programming—from grassroots recreational teams to its competitive Academy squads, bringing over a decade of experience and a deeply player-focused philosophy to the role.

“This transition is not just a step forward for me, but a shared journey with our club to build on what we’ve achieved, foster a strong and collaborative coaching community, and support the growth and development of every player who comes through Fairhope Soccer Club,” said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez succeeds Declan McSheffrey, who served as FSC’s Director of Coaching for the past five years, guiding the organization through a period of remarkable expansion. McSheffrey will remain with the Club as a trusted advisor and coach, entering his 45th year in the sport.

“Declan came to FSC during a pivotal period of transition and helped guide the club to extraordinary growth and progress,” said FSC President John Cocke. “His leadership has been instrumental, and we’re incredibly thankful for his continued presence within the club.”

Affectionately known as “Coach Tito,” Rodriguez is a proud FSC alum who began his soccer journey in the Club’s early days—when it was known as the Fairhope Soccer League—before progressing through the competitive Blast Soccer program. He played for Fairhope Middle and High Schools and began coaching in his senior year. Today, in addition to his work with FSC Academy teams, he also serves as head coach of St. Michael Catholic School’s varsity boys soccer team.

“We could not be more honored to welcome Coach Tito as our new Director of Coaching,” Cocke added. “Tito is a full-circle success story—not just for Fairhope Soccer Club, but for community clubs across the country. The fact that he once wore our colors as a player and now returns to lead this great organization speaks volumes about his dedication to his hometown and his deep connection to FSC.”

Founded in 1974, Fairhope Soccer Club has a 51-year tradition of developing young athletes both on and off the field. Today, the Club supports over 600 recreational players (ages U5–U13) and more than 250 competitive Academy players (U8 through high school).

“I want parents to feel confident that their child is not only learning the game, but also gaining life skills—teamwork, sportsmanship, and a love for soccer that lasts well beyond the field,” Rodriguez said. “This next chapter is about strengthening our foundation and uniting our coaching staff under a shared vision that places each player’s experience at the heart of everything we do.”

Rodriguez’s appointment underscores FSC’s commitment to partnering with local schools and preparing players to thrive on their school teams in the pursuit of state championships and beyond.