CLINTON, Miss. — Mississippi Christian University men's soccer program will be well represented at the 2026 Mississippi Soccer Association Soccer Symposium: Leadership in Motion, as head coach Rafael Costa has been selected as one of the featured speakers for the event on July 8 in Flowood.

Costa, who leads the Mississippi Christian men's soccer program, joins an accomplished group of presenters from across the state for the annual symposium, which focuses on leadership development, coaching education and advancing the game through collaboration among coaches, directors and administrators.

Costa was named Gulf South Conference Coach of the Year in 2025 during his coaching tenure at Mississippi College, earning recognition for his leadership and impact within one of the nation's most competitive Division II conferences. Across his career, he has built a reputation for developing competitive programs rooted in accountability, effort and consistency.

He holds a USSF C License and brings experience across multiple levels of the game, including collegiate, junior college, high school and elite youth soccer. Costa has also worked extensively in the club game with Mississippi Rush and previously served as a director of coaching, along with coaching experience in ECNL environments.

Originally from the United Kingdom, Costa earned his bachelor's degree in Football (Soccer) Studies from Solent University. His background spans both U.S. and international coaching pathways, with a focus on player development and program identity.

At the symposium, Costa is expected to share insights on building team culture, establishing daily standards and developing players within competitive environments.

The Mississippi Soccer Association symposium will take place July 8 in Flowood, with registration currently open through the association.