Nino Kovacevic

Executive Director

nino@udfc.ca

Mesut Mert

Manager of Coach Development

Nino Kovacevic is a proven leader in program development, coach education, and player development known for building clear pathways that support both coaches and players at every stage. He brings deep expertise as an NCCP Coach Developer, Coach Evaluator, and Master Coach Developer, supported by a Master of Adult Education and a Canada Soccer B Diploma. Over three years leading Soccer Nova Scotia’s Regional EXCEL Program, Nino created a high-performance environment where players progressed to Youth National Team identification and programs.

Nino works in close partnership with the Board and staff to translate strategy into practical systems that support player development, coach growth, and strong club culture. His approach blends evidence-based coach development with real-world club operations, ensuring programs are both technically sound and operationally realistic - working towards a club environment where coaches are supported, players develop intentionally, and standards are clearly understood and lived.

Mesut Mert is a experienced leader in Canadian soccer, blending elite professional playing experience with a strong track record in high-performance coaching. A Canada Soccer B Licensed Coach and a former professional with the Montreal Impact and Calgary Mustangs, Mesut brings firsthand understanding of the demands, standards, and mindset required to succeed at the highest levels of the game.

Mesut has translated that experience into impactful coaching roles with Saint Mary’s University, helping develop competitive, tactically intelligent and technically proficient players. He has contributed to the growth of the professional pathway through his coaching with the Halifax Wanderers, connecting youth development to the pro game. As a coach with the Soccer Nova Scotia Canada Games program, he has helped identify and prepare the province’s top talent for national-level competition. Whether he is developing the next wave or fine-tuning elite players, Mesut’s approach is built on real experience, clear messaging, and outcomes you can see on the field.

Keith Partridge

U12 & U13 Technical and Club GK Lead

keithp@udfc.ca

Shahul Shaju

Skill Centre Technical Lead

Keith Partridge is a Canada Soccer-certified coach with experience across all stages of the player pathway, from minis and grassroots programs through to competitive youth and ACAA post-secondary environments. He holds the Canada Soccer Goalkeeper Coach Diploma and serves as an NCCP Grassroots Coach Facilitator, supporting the development of coaches alongside players. Keith’s coaching philosophy is grounded in Long-Term Player Development (LTPD), game-based learning, and the creation of safe, inclusive environments that promote confidence, decision-making, and enjoyment of the game. In addition to his coaching credentials, he is a professional educator and assessment specialist, bringing expertise in instructional design, feedback, and reflective practice that strengthens his session planning, communication, and individualized player and coach support.tentionally, and standards are clearly understood and lived.

Shahul Shanju is an engaging young professional with the character, knowledge, and energy to build meaningful, player-first Skill Centre programming. Drawing on his playing experience from his native India, Shahul brings a deep appreciation for technical detail, creativity, and love of the game. He connects naturally with young players, creating environments that are fun, challenging, and developmentally appropriate. Shahul is passionate about helping players build confidence, strong habits, and a lifelong connection to soccer. His curiosity, work ethic, and commitment to learning make him a strong asset to any club focused on long-term player development.

Susan Steele

Summer Micro, Mini, Community, & Camps Lead

 Susan is a lifetime member of United DFC and its founding clubs, having served the organization as a player, coach, board member, and staff member over many years. Susan’s coaching experience spans every level of the club, from Mini soccer through Canada Games programs, giving her a deep understanding of long-term player development. Susan is CONCACAF C License trained and brings a strong foundation in modern coaching principles shaped by years of practical, on-field experience. Susan is well known in the community for her commitment to coaching soccer and consistently stepping in to support players, families, and programs wherever needed. Susan has extensive experience working with players aged 5-12, where creating fun, safe, and developmentally appropriate environments is critical. Susan is excited to be back serving the community and focused on growing and strengthening the summer camp, Mini, and U11 community programs to ensure young players build a lifelong love for the game.

Patricia Morrison

Indrajith M Sunilkumar

Programs and Administration Coordinator

Pattie is a reliable and supportive point of contact for families and staff. She guides registrations, financial aid and team operations with calm efficiency, making everything feel easier for everyone. Her dedication to our members and her thoughtful approach make her an essential part of the UDFC team.

For families:

• Manages all RAMP processes including setup, registrations and updates

• Supports financial aid applications

• Helps with general finance questions

For coaches and team managers:

• Manages referee fees

• Manages coach stipends

• Supports team travel administration

• Oversees background check compliance for safe sport

Indrajith is a welcoming point of contact for families at United DFC. He supports members with registrations, program information, schedules and general inquiries, always offering clear and friendly guidance.

For families:

• Answers registration questions and guides members through the process

• Provides program details and confirms schedules

• Responds to general inquiries and directs families to the right staff when needed

For coaches and team managers:

• Provides day to day support on behalf of our Technical Staff

• Shares program updates and development opportunities

• Assists with administrative items that help keep teams organized and informed

Katie Steele

Member Engagement and Communications Coordinator

katies@udfc.ca

Elisa Senger

Manager, Administration & Finance 

elisa@udfc.ca

Katie has been part of United DFC for many years and brings a strong understanding of our community. She supports club communications by creating clear and consistent messaging across email, social media and the website.

For families:

• Shares program information and timely club updates

• Provides clear communication through email and social media

• Helps families stay connected with key dates, schedules and events

• Available for families who want to share photos or information katies@udfc.ca 

For coaches and team managers:

• Supports communication of program updates from Technical Staff

• Assists with event promotion and engagement initiatives

• Highlights team news and community moments that build club spirit

Elisa supports the daily operations of United DFC by strengthening administrative processes, improving how information flows across the club and supporting the staff who work directly with members. She focuses on improving the processes that support registration, communication and program delivery, making them easier for families, coaches and staff. With a practical and thoughtful approach, Elisa works behind the scenes to keep the club organized, easy to navigate and running effectively.