Meet Chicago Red Stars New Head Coach Chris Petrucelli
Listen up, Socceristas, the Chicago Red Stars have a new coach! After Rory Dames’ history of abuse came to light at the end of last season and his immediate resignation, we’ve been wondering who would take over the team. The Red Stars is proud to announce that Chris Petrucelli will be taking on the job. Here is what we know about Coach Petrucelli and what we can expect from the team under his guidance.
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Coaching
Formerly of Southern Methodist University in Texas, Chris Petrucelli has coached since the mid-80s. His credits include the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame, the Longhorns of the University of Texas at Austin, and the U18 and U21 United States Women’s teams. As a collegiate coach, he won National Coach of the Year twice and earned NCAA Championship Coach.
Years as a Player
While he’s been coaching for a good long while, Petrucelli started as a player. In high school, he served as a captain in his senior year and helped his team win two NCAA Division III Men’s Soccer Championships. He has been involved in the game for over 40 years, so we know he knows the game. But the best part of Petrucelli’s appointment as head coach is that it was the players’ idea.
Head Coach of the Red Stars
Several players held significant roles on the search committee for the new coach. Bringing the players in on the decision-making process is the perfect way to show the world that the league cares about change and listening to players. Petrucelli was brought on not only because of his coaching legacy but because the team believes he will be able to create and maintain a safe environment for the Red Stars.
Of course, Petrucelli is eager to get to work and hungry for a championship. The Red Stars have made it to the playoffs for six consecutive seasons but have not yet clinched a championship title. However, they have all the right pieces to make it to the champion’s podium; maybe this year, Petrucelli will be able to lead them all the way.
We are thrilled about this new coach and the collaboration that will come between the coaching staff and players.
Featured image via @chicagoredstars on Instagram
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