Stony Brook University Athletics

Gabriel Fernandes enters his third season on staff with the Stony Brook men’s soccer team in 2026.

Last season, Fernandes played a key role in guiding Stony Brook to its first-ever CAA Championship Game appearance. Stony Brook fell to top-seeded Elon, but along the way won nine games overall and four in conference play, clinching the No. 2 seed in the CAA North Division. The Seawolves topped Monmouth in the CAA North Division Quarterfinal to earn the program's first conference postseason victory since 2012, following that up with a road win over top-seeded and nationally-ranked Hofstra to clinch a berth in the CAA Championship game. The Seawolves were regionally recognized throughout the season, climbing as high as No. 5 in the United Soccer Coaches Atlantic Region Poll.

Fernandes was also key in the development of Stony Brook's four All-CAA players: Caleb Danquah, Ryan Farr, Finlay Oliver and Jamie Orson. Orson also earned CAA Co-Defender of the Year honors, becoming the first field player in Stony Brook history to earn a CAA Major Award.

In 2024, Fernandes assisted the Stony Brook squad as they earned a 3-10-3 overall record with a ranked victory over Seton Hall. Jonas Bickus earned All-CAA Second Team honors along with teammates, Bas Beckhoven, Finlay Oliver, and Kyle Smith being named to the College Sports Communicators' Academic All-District Team. He also helped with the development of the Seawolves' goalkeepers, recording a 2.19 goals-against average and .628 save percentage through 16 games. 

Fernandes began his coaching career with the Seawolves in January 2024 as a volunteer assistant before being elevated to a full-time assistant coach on the staff. 

Prior to joining the Stony Brook staff, Fernandes has worked as a coach and trainer at the South Shore Futbol Club where he implemented engaging and skill-focused drills that catered to the developmental needs of young players. He also provided personalized coaching to enhance individual skills and an understanding of the game. He introduced advanced techniques and strategies that were typically taught at a higher level, while monitoring and assessing each player’s progress. He has also coached at the Rasa Camp, helping improve young players skills through structured sessions, and managing the logistical aspects and organization of the program.. He is licensed by U.S. Soccer in 9v9 and 11v11 in-person coaching.

The Long Island native was instrumental during his time as a player and captain for Stony Brook. He appeared in 68 games during his five seasons, leading the Seawolves to three straight American East Tournament appearances. During his collegiate career, he also played with the Brazilian 4th Division Team Bandeirante E.C. in 2017, and the USL League 2 for the Tampa Bay Rowdies U23 and the Long Island Rough Riders.

Fernandes graduated from Stony Brook in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Multidisciplinary Studies.