Forward Madison FC has hired Emerson Lovato as its goalkeeper coach, officially completing the team’s 2021 coaching staff. Lovato joins the Flamingos after previously working as an assistant for several Division II collegiate programs in Texas and South Carolina.

“The community is a big part of the club, and that’s something that I’ve been looking for,” Lovato said. “I had three or four conversations with [head coach] Carl Craig that I really enjoyed. He has a plan for this club both on and off the field and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Lovato comes to Madison following coaching roles at the University of Texas Permian Basin, Midwestern State University (Texas) and Newberry College (S.C.). At 27 years old, Lovato said he sees his role at Forward Madison as an opportunity to grow in a professional setting.

“I love the setup and everything we’ve been doing so far,” Lovato said. “As Forward Madison continues to build a relationship with the community, I definitely see myself as an individual that can help out and connect with a lot of people around here.” 

Forward Madison’s current squad includes one goalkeeper in veteran Phil Breno, but the team has typically had three on its roster. The Flamingos open their USL League One season on May 8 at FC Tucson before returning to Breese Stevens Field for its home opener on May 15.