The Universal Soccer Tournament is organized by experienced football professionals with a proven background in talent identification, player development, and tournament operations. The organizing team is committed to delivering a transparent, professionally run scouting environment that prioritizes football standards, competitive integrity, and player welfare.
Mohammed Ceesay is a licensed scout, youth coach, and football development professional with extensive experience across Africa, the UK, and the United States. He is the Founder of Universal Sporting Boys FC (USBFC), one of the fastest-growing academy projects in West Africa, built on a clear development methodology focused on long-term player progression rather than short-term results.
Through USBFC, Mohammed has designed and implemented a structured player development model that has contributed to the progression of over five players into professional football pathways, with several others advancing into elite academies and international opportunities. His work spans talent identification, player placement, and building credible bridges between grassroots football and the professional game.
Mohammed is also the creator of the Universal Soccer Tournament, a scouting-focused competition that has successfully hosted multiple editions in West Africa, attracting professional scouts, coaches, and academy directors from Europe and beyond. The tournament was designed to provide a transparent, football-first evaluation environment where players are assessed in real competitive conditions.
The 2026 edition marks the tournament’s expansion into North America, bringing a proven scouting and recruitment platform to the United States while maintaining the same standards of integrity, professionalism, and development-driven football.
Luca Nogueira is the current Head Coach of Columbus Astrays, bringing broad international coaching experience across Brazil, Sweden, and the United States. His exposure to different football cultures has shaped a well rounded approach to player development, tactical structure, and competitive preparation.
Alongside his coaching career, Luca has coordinated and contributed to numerous player showcases and scouting events, working closely with clubs, coaches, and evaluators to create professional and well organized evaluation environments. This experience has strengthened his understanding of talent identification and the importance of structure in showcase football.
As Head Coach of Columbus Astrays, Luca is committed to developing disciplined, intelligent players while maintaining high standards of professionalism, accountability, and growth both on and off the field.
Email:
luca@universalsoccertournament.com
Contact:
+1 (614) 917-8791
Emmanuel Iningouet Daunouviet is the Founder and President of Columbus Rough Riders FC, bringing over 20 years of experience and leadership in the game. With a background as both a player and coach, he has developed a strong understanding of football at competitive and organizational levels.
Emmanuel has five years of experience in the UPSL, including two years as a staff member and assistant coach at FutOhio, and three years as a defensive midfielder with Columbus Astray FC. These roles have shaped his approach to building disciplined, competitive teams within a well-structured club environment.
As a tournament coordinator, Emmanuel is focused on player development, professionalism, and community impact. He is committed to creating environments where standards are clear, growth is prioritized, and players are given the opportunity to progress both on and off the field.
Email:
eman@universalsoccertournament.com
Contact:
+1 (614) 622-1918