NICOLAS ROUCO | HEAD COACH
AFC C Diploma (Currently in AFC B Diploma), Cert IV Fitness, Cert Life Coaching, Cert Sports Psychology
Nicolas spent the majority of his junior and senior football career in the NSW Premier League (NPL), making his First Grade debut at just 17, where he scored his first senior goal. Throughout his career, he played for notable clubs including Blacktown City Demons, Parramatta Eagles, Penrith, and Northern Spirit FC.
His football journey also took him abroad, with playing stints in both Brazil and the UK (Wales). It was his time at Grêmio in Brazil that left the most lasting impact, shaping not only his playing style but also his coaching philosophy. Immersed in an elite football environment among world-class players (Anderson pictured below), coaches, and club staff, this experience became a cornerstone of his development.
This opportunity arose after Nicolas was scouted at the Punta Cup in Punta del Este, Uruguay, at age 16-a prestigious international youth tournament featuring top clubs such as Barcelona, Boca Juniors, Grêmio, and Nacional. During the tournament, Nico shared the pitch with future global stars including Luis Suárez & Edinson Cavani.
PLAYED IN BRAZIL, WALES AND AUS
Nicolas’s Uruguayan heritage sparked his passion for football from a young age, inspired by the flair and brilliance of South American heroes like Maradona, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and of course, Messi.
Known for his skill and composure, Nico grew up playing as an attacking midfielder, proudly wearing the #10 jersey - a number synonymous with creativity and influence on the pitch. He credits playing in the #10 role for deepening his appreciation for coaching, as the position required him to read the game, orchestrate attacking play, and understand opposition defensive structures.
Since relocating to the Illawarra region, Nicolas has represented Shellharbour FC, consistently playing in both the #10 and #9 roles. In the 2023 season, he scored 19 goals across league and cup competitions, helping lead Shellharbour FC to the Minor Premiership and promotion to the Illawarra Premier League.
In 2024, Nico captained Warilla Wanderers FC’s First Team, and midway through the season, he was promoted to First Team Head Coach. He stepped into the role to support the club's efforts to remain in the District League following a challenging start to the year.
Following the season, Nico completed his AFC C Diploma, further developing his coaching skills and aligning his ATTFA programs with the AFC Coaching Curriculum - bringing professional structure and passion to the next generation of players
Successful Business owner since 2012
At just 24 years old, Nicolas founded and operated a successful gym in Sydney, where he not only helped hundreds of members achieve their health and fitness goals but also mentored aspiring trainers into business ownership. His time in the industry gave him the opportunity to work with high-profile business professionals and respected leaders - most notably Tony Popovic during his tenure at the Western Sydney Wanderers - providing Nico with a unique understanding of what true leadership looks like.
With over 15 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, Nicolas brings a powerful combination of leadership, nutrition knowledge, goal-setting strategies, and coaching insight to his work with young footballers - empowering them to not only elevate their game but grow as individuals.
Driven by a passion for holistic athlete development, Nicolas pursued further education in life coaching and sports psychology, inspired by his time in Brazil, where clubs provided comprehensive athlete support - physical, mental, and emotional. It was there he saw firsthand how the right environment and guidance could allow players to truly thrive, both on and off the field.
Nico believes many of the qualities that shaped his success in business were forged on the football pitch. Today, he’s committed to passing on those lessons to his academy players, helping them build the resilience, character, and mindset needed to succeed in football and in life
Technical Director - Shellharbour Junior FC
In 2025, Nico was appointed Technical Director of Shellharbour Junior Football Club - his latest project and an exciting new chapter in his coaching journey. With over 100 teams at the club, it presents not only a significant opportunity for player and coach development, but also a chance for Nico’s leadership and philosophy to make a lasting impact across all age groups.
Nico has set big goals for the club, aiming to build on its already impressive legacy and take it to the next level. It’s a perfect environment for his progressive coaching methodologies to shine through - fostering technical development, character, and a strong football culture.
To support his continued growth and stay aligned with modern coaching standards, Nico has also begun working towards his AFC B Diploma, further advancing his knowledge in player development and performance coaching.
This role reflects Nico’s long-standing commitment to holistic football education, blending his playing experience, coaching credentials, and leadership skills to help shape the next generation of players and coaches.