 Admitted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2005, Fernando began his career as a soccer player in the early 1970's, in Uruguay, where he
was born. He moved to the United States in 1970 and immediately set about establishing
standards of excellence in both the NASL and the MISL.
Having become a US citizen in 1987, Fernando began representing the US internationally
in 1990. He started for the US in its legendary triumph over Colombia during
the 1994 World Cup. In 1998, he served as assistant coach to the Nigerian National
Team.
Fernando is
best know for his prowess indoors. He played for New York, San Diego, Los Angeles,
and St.Louis in a stellar career that included a spot on the MISL's All-Decade
Team. He won four championships with New York and San Diego and got his first
coaching experience when he took over as coach of St.Louis in 1992.
Fernando coached the expansion Seattle SeaDogs of the CISL from worst to first
and won the league's Lawrence Trophy in 1997. Fernando went on to coach the
Florida ThunderCats (NPSL), the New England Revolution (MLS) and is now Head Coach of the Colorado Rapids
(MLS). Fernando also served as Executive Director for the World Indoor Soccer
Championship, which was last held in Mexico in 1997.
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