Golden Eagles Add Flannell and Safi to Soccer Coaching Staff
8/27/2025 3:05:00 PM | Women's Soccer
HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The University of Southern Mississippi women's soccer program has bolstered its staff ahead of the 2025 season, welcoming Brenden Flannell as an assistant coach and Matthias Safi as a volunteer assistant coach. Both bring diverse experiences as players, educators, and mentors that will strengthen the Golden Eagles on and off the pitch.
Flannell, a Midwest native from Mansfield, Ill., arrives in Hattiesburg after a playing and coaching career that has taken him across the U.S. and into Canada. A former professional with Detroit Waza Flo, Windsor City FC, and Summit City United, he also gained collegiate coaching experience at Indiana Tech, where he helped lead the men's team to an undefeated spring season and a championship at the Purdue Fort Wayne Invitational Tournament. A graduate of Central Methodist University with a degree in International Business, Flannell has also worked with Southwest Mississippi Community College men's soccer team while pursuing his coaching career.
Joining him on the staff as a volunteer assistant coach is Safi, a dedicated and aspiring professional in business, hospitality, and sport. Originally from Italy and raised in France, Safi developed his passion for soccer playing at multiple clubs before transitioning to the sidelines. He began his coaching journey at the YMCA in Petal (2022–23), working with youth players, and later served as head coach of the University of Southern Mississippi Soccer Club (2024–25). Now a volunteer assistant with the Golden Eagles, he combines his global perspective with a strong academic foundation as he pursues a double undergraduate degree in Business Administration and Hospitality & Tourism, along with a minor in Sports Management.
Together, Flannell and Safi add energy, international experience, and a commitment to player development that align with Southern Miss' mission of building excellence within its women's soccer program.
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