The 2024 season will be Cardona's first season on Stephen Lyons' coaching staff.

Raised in Athens, Cardona graduated from Tennessee Wesleyan in 2015 with a double major in Exercise Science and Sports Management. He played four seasons with the Bulldogs for Lyons before joining the coaching staff as a student assistant under Lyons.

"I'm excited to be part of Carson-Newman," Cardona said. "It's going to be fun and exciting. I have that connection with Coach Lyons already which is helpful. Just ready to get started!"

He completed graduate studies by obtaining a Master's in Business Administration in December of 2021.

Cardona has gathered plenty of coaching experience after the conclusion of his playing days. He has spent the past four seasons at his alma mater, Tennessee Wesleyan University as both a graduate assistant and an assistant coach.

He also has coaching experience locally with McMinn United Futbol Club, Knoxville Football club and FC Alliance. These experiences have allowed him to develop youth soccer players as well as organize and instruct soccer camps.

"I have known Kevin for almost 15 years, during which he played 4 years for me at Tennessee Wesleyan," Lyons said. "Since graduating, he has been very active on the coaching scene being involved in youth, college and professional environments. He has excellent character, work ethic and professionalism and is wanting to continue his experience in the college game. He also holds his USSF B license. We are very excited to have him join the staff and start working with the team!"