Michael Smith joins Cleveland SC in his first season as Assistant Coach, bringing extensive youth, collegiate, and international soccer experience to the club. A longtime leader within the Northeast Ohio soccer landscape, Smith arrives from Cleveland United Soccer Club, where he has served since 2014, including as Boys Program Director.

Smith also brings a strong background in player development and scouting, having served as Director of HFESI Ball for Vision since 2007 and as a Cal South Pro+ Scout from 2012–2013. He holds a U.S. Soccer Federation National “C” License and has been actively involved in coaching education and youth development for more than two decades.

Prior to his work in club soccer leadership, Smith contributed to the DC Scores program from 1996–2001, further building his experience in community-based player development and mentorship.
As a player, Smith competed at Mount Union College (1992–1993), where he earned All-Ohio Athletic Conference honors. He also received a Division I athletic scholarship to Howard University (1993–1996), competing at the national collegiate level. His playing background includes Region II Olympic Development Program participation from 1987–1992 and selection to the Greater Akron All-Star Game in 1992.

Smith also brings international playing experience, having traveled to Italy and Yugoslavia in 1990 to compete in the Verona Cup and play in friendlies against European powers Red Star Belgrade and Hajduk Split.

Now joining Cleveland SC’s coaching staff, Smith adds a wealth of experience in player development, talent identification, and competitive soccer at both the domestic and international levels.