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MLS D.C. United

D.C. United Adds to Staff

March 26, 2003 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
D.C. United News Release


CHANTILLY, VA (March 26, 2003) - D.C. United announced today two additions to the club's staff. David Vanole has been hired as the Goalkeeping Coach and A.J. Wood has accepted the role of Youth Development Coordinator. Vanole, who was a player on the U.S. National Team at the 1990 World Cup and in the 1988 Olympics, will work closely with head coach Ray Hudson and assistant coach John Trask to ensure that United's goalkeepers are prepared for games this season. A.J. Wood, a Rockville, MD native and former United standout who recorded 14 goals and 8 assists in his four seasons with the team, will be responsible for overseeing the development of all players affiliated with D.C. United's youth teams.

Vanole, who is also currently the Assistant Coach for the WUSA's Washington Freedom, has served as the Goalkeeper Coach for the U.S. Women's Olympic Team and the U.S. Under-20 Men's National Team. He has coached at the college level, spending time with Loyola Marymount, San Diego State, and UCLA, where he played from 1981-1985, helping the Bruins capture the NCAA Division I national championship in his senior year. In the 1-0 final victory, Vanole set an NCAA by recording the longest shutout in the history of collegiate soccer.

"We are pleased that David is able to join our coaching staff," said D.C. United Technical Director Dave Kasper. He brings a wealth of experience at all levels of soccer in the United States and has the added bonus of having previously worked with both Nick Rimando and Doug Warren.

Wood returns to D.C. United after playing six years in MLS. He began his career with the MetroStars as the fifth round pick in the inaugural MLS draft (1996). After being traded to Columbus and then Chicago, Wood returned to his hometown to play with United from 1998-2001. He ranked third in the club in scoring for the 1999 season with eight goals. Wood graduated from the University of Virginia in 1995, having won four consecutive NCAA Division I championship titles. He scored 56 goals in 77 appearances for the Cavaliers. Wood continues to hold the NCAA record with 13 post-season goals.

"A.J. is a local idol and wants to be a part of our success in building solid youth development programs within our area," continued Kasper. "His experience as a product of youth soccer in this country will greatly benefit our up and coming stars.

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