Chester, PA (SportsNetwork.com) – The Philadelphia Union removed the interim
tag from head coach Jim Curtin’s title on Friday, making him the club’s third
permanent head coach.
“We proudly announce Jim Curtin as the head coach of our first team,” Union
CEO Nick Sakiewicz said at a press conference Friday morning. “Jim is the
perfect fit to lead our first team because he’s worked through our system and
understands our great fans, partners and community and shares our burning
passion in delivering a winning product on the field.
“He has played in the league and knows what it takes to be successful in Major
League Soccer,” Sakiewicz continued. “He’ll be fully responsible for all
player identification, recruiting, signings, transfer and trades. I’m very
proud to announce that Jim Curtin will lead our team for the forseeable
future.”
Curtin replaced former boss John Hackworth in June and led the club to a
10-6-7 record, including an appearance in the U.S. Open Cup final. They came
close to a playoff spot, but ultimately fell short for the fourth time in five
years. finishing in sixth place in the Eastern Conference with 42 points.
“I’m incredibly honored to be head coach of my hometown club. It’s something
that means a lot to me,” Curtin said. “Give me a full offseason and see what
we come up with. I promise you we’ll work 24-7 to bring in great players and
improve a roster that’s already strong.”
Curtin, 35, is the youngest coach in the league, but will be tasked with
guiding the Union back to the playoffs after missing the postseason dance in
three consecutive seasons.
