Dasovic to coach developmental team
Published on March 22, 2006 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Vancouver Whitecaps News Release
Vancouver Whitecaps Director of Soccer Operations, Bob Lenarduzzi, is pleased to announce today the hiring of Nick Dasovic as Whitecaps Men's Reserves head coach.
"We are thrilled to have Nick remain with the club as the new head coach of the Men's Reserve team," said Lenarduzzi. "This transition made sense, as it's a great opportunity for both the club and Nick; he will bring an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience to the position."
Dasovic, who spent six seasons in Vancouver as a midfielder/defender from 1995-1996 and 2002-2005, played in 106 games, accumulating 8,987 minutes, while scoring three goals and assisting on one. In 2003, Dasovic was named player/assistant coach, a position which he held through the 2005 season. Dasovic's coaching resume also includes four years as the assistant coach to Dale Mitchell with the Canadian U-20 Men's team.
"This is a great opportunity for me and I feel fortunate to be given this chance," said Dasovic. "This position, combined with my current role with Dale Mitchell and Canada's U-20 squad, will ultimately make me a better coach."
In addition to his time in Vancouver, Dasovic spent the majority of his playing career in Europe, where he played for clubs in Croatia, France, Sweden, as well as Scotland. While in Scotland, Dasovic played for St. Johnstone of the Scottish Premier League. Internationally, Dasovic has made 63 appearances for the Canadian National team and is ranked fifth all-time in games played. Dasovic was a member of the 2002 Gold Cup team, and he won a bronze medal playing in four of the five games.
Additional Whitecaps Transactions:
Vancouver Whitecaps also announced today the retirement of defender/midfielder Chris Franks and the release of forward Carlo Corazzin.
"I would like to thank Chris and Carlo for their countless contributions to the Whitecaps on and off the field and wish them the best of luck with their future endeavors," said Lenarduzzi.
A former star with UBC, Chris Franks came up through Vancouver's reserve squad to become a key member of the club. The native of Richmond, BC played 12 years and over 150 games with the Whitecaps/86ers since first joining the club in 1994. Internationally, Franks has one cap with Canada's national team and is a former member of the U-23 and U-20 teams. In 2004, Franks was voted by fans to Vancouver's All-Time Starting 11. After soccer, Franks will continue his career as a physiotherapist.
Corazzin had two stints with the Whitecaps organization, first joining the club in 1993 before heading to Europe and later returning in 2003. Internationally Corazzin played for the Canadian U-23 team from 1990-1992. Corazzin first played on the national team in 1994 finishing with 60 caps and 11 goals, ranking him fourth in all time scoring.
"Carlo, who was the Whitecaps youth boys head coach since 2004, was offered a full-time position in the youth department but due to time constraints was unable to commit," Lenarduzzi added.
The Whitecaps regular season kicks off on Saturday, April 22 versus the Portland Timbers. Guarantee your priority purchase rights for the inaugural Whitecaps Nations Cup with the new 3-Game Pack. Prices start at just $42. For more information about the 3-Game Pack and other Whitecaps ticket packages call 604.669.WAVE (9283) or visit whitecapsfc.com.
USL First Division Stories from March 22, 2006
- Dasovic to coach developmental team - Vancouver Whitecaps
- Timbers sign former MLS player Luke Kreamalmeyer - Portland Timbers
- Thunder announces 2006 preseason schedule - Minnesota Thunder
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