Marc Nicholls — Technical Director

Nicholls joined Columbus Crew as Technical Director on January 21, 2022 after serving as the Technical Director for MLS expansion side Charlotte FC from 2020-2021. A two-time U.S. Soccer Academy Coach of the Year, Nicholls has more than ​twenty years of experience at the professional and youth levels.

During his time with Charlotte FC, Nicholls oversaw the development of players ​and staff, as well as establishing the Academy program. He also assisted in the identification of key staff hires and scouting for the initial phase of the team roster as the club prepared for its inaugural season in MLS.

Prior to his time in Charlotte , he worked for Seattle Sounders FC from 2013-2020, serving as Academy Director for Sounders Academy before taking on the role of Director of Player Development in 2018. During his time as Director of Player Development, Nichol​ls oversaw the transition of 15 players from the Sounders Academy into MLS and USL. Nicholls’ previous experience as a Technical Director also includes stints with ​Roanoke Star and NC Fusion.

Nichol​ls' experience also includes serving as a head coach for Sounders Academy from 2013-2014 and head coach of the Carolina Dynamo of the Premier Development League from 2011-2013. During his time in North Carolina, Nichol​ls led the team to three South Atlantic Division ​titles during each of his three seasons with the club (2011, 2012, 2013). Notably, Nichol​ls was twice named U.S. Soccer Academy Coach of the Year (2010, ​2012).