Mario Pinto has been named Volunteer Assistant Coach for the Brevard College Men's Soccer program, announced BC Head Men's Soccer Coach Helio "L" D'Anna.  Pinto, who will be involved in all aspects of the program, begins his duties immediately.

Pinto, a native of Uberlandia, Brazil and a former student-athlete under the guidance of Coach D'Anna at Lincoln Memorial University, is currently pursuing his Master's degree in the new Health and Human Performance graduate program at Brevard College.  At Lincoln Memorial, Pinto was one of the top forwards in the nation earning NCAA Division II First-Team All-America honors.

"Any coach would be proud of a former player with accomplishments such as these on the field," said D'Anna.  "But it is really special when a player such as Mario opts to come back and serve as an assistant.  We are very fortunate to have Mario as part of the Brevard College staff where he will add a lot to the program."

In just three seasons at Lincoln Memorial (2011-13), Pinto broke the program's career record for goals scored with 49, while also finishing second in program history in total points with 112. Pinto is tied for the all-time LMU record in game-winning goals with 13, while his 251 shots is the highest total in program history. His career stat ledger also includes 14 assists and a gaudy .195 shot percentage.

Pinto concluded his college career as a three-time All-South Atlantic Conference First Team selection, a three-time Daktronics All-Southeast Region honoree and a three-time NSCAA All-Southeast Region pick to go along with All-American honors by both Daktronics and the NSCAA. Pinto's 2012 season is among the greatest in LMU's history as he piled up 21 goals, five assists and four hat tricks to receive SAC and Daktronics Southeast Region Player of the Year distinctions.

Following his collegiate playing career at Lincoln Memorial, Pinto played professionally with EC Noroeste, a second division club located in Bauru, Sao Paulo, Brazil.