Samba Soccer Academy

Firmiano Ribeiro
Academy Director

A native of the favelas of Bahia, Brazil, Firmiano Ribeiro brings unique soccer experience as the founder of Samba. Firmiano is currently a US Development Academy(DA) Head Coach, which serves as the highest level of youth soccer in the country. In 2017 he served the Head Men’s Soccer Coach of Dean College in Franklin, MA. In his two seasons with the Bulldogs, they earned a combined record of 33-¬3-¬3, were awarded 12 ALL-¬America honors, and made two appearances in the National Tournament, including a Final Four appearance in 2017. Ribeiro has been working in youth soccer development as a director and coach with various youth soccer clubs and academies throughout New England. During his time at Dean College, Ribeiro also coached with the New England Revolution Academy (MLS), New England Futbol Club (NEFC), and Bulldogs Soccer Academy, where he served as associate director. Prior to relocating to the United States, Firmiano began playing soccer in the favelas of Brazil at an early age. Upon his relocation, played collegiately at Franklin Pierce U. and at the University of New Haven (both NCAA II), where his Earned his Bachelor’s Degree. Ribeiro is currently pursuing his USSF C License.