Orlando City Press Release
ORLANDO – September 15, 2014 – Orlando City Soccer Club announced today that Midfielder Anthony Pulis will join Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) as an Academy coach, effective immediately.
After an extensive 15 year playing career, Pulis announced his retirement from professional soccer on Sunday morning with a statement via his Twitter account. Following the announcement, Pulis is set to join the Club’s Pro Academy staff, further strengthening the program.
“I’m very grateful to Phil, Paul and Adrian for giving me this opportunity to work for such a fantastic organization as it transitions into MLS,” said Pulis. “It’s sad to finish playing, but I’ve always taken a keen interest in coaching and it’s something I’m passionate about. It’s a really exciting time to be a part of this club, and I can’t wait to get started.”
During the past three seasons, Pulis has spent time as a coach within Orlando City’s youth ranks, however the recent appointment provides a permanent move for the Englishman.
Pulis hails from a coaching family as his father Tony Pulis has managed several top-flight clubs, such as English Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Stoke City. After playing for 10 years in his native England for various teams such as Stoke City, Portsmouth and Bristol Rovers, Pulis signed with Orlando City in 2012 with the aspiration of diving into a full-time coaching role at the conclusion of his playing career.
“Anthony has been a model professional, and we are delighted that he has agreed to stay with the club and begin his coaching career here,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “I am sure that he will bring the same hard work and dedication to the Academy he has showed through his playing career.”
Since arriving to the City Beautiful, Pulis has been a staple in Head Coach Adrian Heath’s squad, scoring four goals in 44 appearances. During his time with the Lions, Pulis has won three championships, including two regular season titles and a postseason title.
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