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.
Fox News First
Get all the stories you need-to-know from the most powerful name in news delivered first thing every morning to your inbox.
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.
