Carlos Rubio steps down as Lenoir-Rhyne coach, stays with Hickory FC

Rubio will continue his role with the local semi-pro soccer club.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Carlos Rubio has stepped down from his coaching duties at Lenoir-Rhyne University in order to focus solely on his role as head coach of the local semi-professional soccer club, Hickory FC. Rubio had been juggling both coaching positions.

Why it matters

Rubio's decision to step away from the college coaching ranks in order to dedicate more time to the local semi-pro team reflects the growing popularity and importance of community-based sports clubs in the region.

The details

Rubio had been the head coach of the Lenoir-Rhyne men's soccer team in addition to serving as the head coach of Hickory FC, a semi-professional soccer club. He has decided to relinquish his college coaching duties in order to focus solely on leading Hickory FC.

  • Rubio stepped down from his Lenoir-Rhyne coaching role on March 4, 2026.

The players

Carlos Rubio

The former head coach of the Lenoir-Rhyne men's soccer team who will now focus solely on his role as head coach of the local semi-pro club, Hickory FC.

Lenoir-Rhyne University

A private university located in Hickory, North Carolina where Rubio previously served as the head coach of the men's soccer team.

Hickory FC

A semi-professional soccer club based in Hickory, North Carolina that Rubio will now dedicate his full attention to as head coach.

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The takeaway

Rubio's decision to step away from college coaching to focus on the local semi-pro club highlights the growing importance of community-based sports organizations in providing opportunities for athletes and engaging local fans.