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USL New York Red Bulls II

John Wolyniec Steps Down as Red Bulls II Head Coach

December 10, 2021 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
New York Red Bulls II News Release


HARRISON, N.J. - New York Red Bulls II announced on Friday that John Wolyniec had elected to step down from his position as the club's Head Coach. Wolyniec had been the lone Head Coach in the Red Bulls II's history since it joined the USL Championship in 2015, and he had been part of the Red Bulls organization in a coaching capacity since his retirement from playing in 2010.

"I want to say thank you to the fans and club for all their support throughout the years, as a player and coach," said Wolyniec. "My goal was to always put this club in the best position, most importantly by creating an environment that fostered relationships with our staff and especially with our young players where we could all grow professionally and achieve the success we all chased. Now, I have a chance for myself to grow professionally and find that next opportunity that will help my coaching career."

Wolyniec was announced as Red Bulls II's first Head Coach on March 2, 2015. He led NYRB II to the USL Championship title in 2016 in just the second season for the club. Wolyniec amassed an 88-75-43 record overall and saw his players earn six Championship All-League selections. He was named the Championship's 2016 Coach of the Year, in the same year that current United States Men's National Team player Aaron Long was voted the Championship Defender of the Year and Brandon Allen was voted Championship Rookie of the Year.

"It was a pleasure to have been able to work with John these last two years," said Head of Sport Kevin Thelwell. "He has done an exceptional job of not just transforming Red Bulls II, but elevating the expectations for the club. He is more than a soccer coach and the impact he has had on these young men throughout his time here will be a positive influence for the rest of their lives.

"He was an amazing colleague to our other coaches and staff, always willing to help wherever it is needed," said Thelwell. "I wish him and his family the very best in their next chapter."

Over the course of his tutelage as NYRBII head coach, Wolyniec helped numerous players make the jump from the USL Championship to Major League Soccer. In addition to Long, he has guided players such as Tyler Adams, Derrick Etienne Jr., Jared Stroud, Florian Valot and Brian White in their professional path from the Championship to MLS.

"On behalf of our organization, I would like to thank John for his unwavering dedication as a player and coach," said Marc de Grandpré, General Manager, New York Red Bulls. "His commitment and class truly helped define the success of our club both on and off the pitch. I wish him and his family all the best."

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