From Player to Leader: Coach Vinnie Candela on Culture, Chemistry & the Union Omaha Turnaround

Union Omaha’s new Head Coach Vincenzo Candela, better known as Coach Vinnie, joins Wired Axcess for a deep, personal conversation that goes far beyond the pitch. Born to a Colombian mother and Italian father, Vinnie shares how his multicultural roots shaped his passion, discipline, and pride. Growing up chasing the American Dream, Vinnie’s family moved to Florida, where he faced a defining choice early in life: pursue professional soccer or follow his father’s motocross legacy. He chose football, a decision that would take him across the Atlantic to Europe alone, competing and growing in Spain, Germany, and Belgium, and ultimately earning the honor of playing professionally for Colombia. Utilizing his speed, intelligence, and relentless work ethic, Vinnie left his mark everywhere he played. After returning to the U.S., he competed in the USL, then transitioned into coaching — starting as an assistant under one of his former coaches at Union Omaha. What happened next changed the club’s trajectory. Taking over as interim head coach in July, Vinnie helped guide Union Omaha from last place to 5th place and into the playoffs, proving that culture, chemistry, and belief matter just as much as tactics.Now officially named Head Coach, Vinnie reflects on leadership, trust, and what’s next for Union Omaha as he continues building a program rooted in identity and accountability. Follow Hurrdat Sports on social: Twitter: http://twitter.com/hurrdatsports  Instagram: http://instagram.com/hurrdatsports  Tiktok: http://tiktok.com/hurrdatsports  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurrdatSports Follow us on Social Media: Twitter: @hurrdatsports, @DJKDuBOmaha Instagram: @hurrdatsports Facebook: HurrdatSports Guests and Mentions: @candelavincenzo @Union_Omaha @USLLeagueOne Looking For More? Find Our Previous Episodes on SoundCloud! Hurrdat Sports is a digital production platform dedicated to the new wave of sports media. From podcasting to video interviews along with live events and entertainment, we're here to change how you consume sports. Find us online at Hurrdatsports.com #UnionOmaha #USLLeagueOne #OmahaSoccer #MLS #USLSoccer #SoccerPodcast #VincenzoCandela #WiredAccessPodcast #PromotionRelegation #OmahaNebraska Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices