In a move that baffles me, the New England Revolution have named the color commentator on the team’s television broadcasts as their new coach.
I am shocked that with so many good coaches available, hello Garry Smith, that the Revs would hire a coach with no professional coaching experience. Actually Heaps has never been a head coach before in his life!
Let me repeat that, Heaps has never coached a team before. His previous coaching experience was as a volunteer assistant coach at Boston College. Then he spent two years in the same role at Northeastern. And somehow the New England Revolution feel that Jay Heaps is the best option to lead this team in 2012. Simply amazing.
The obligatory quotes:
“For more than a decade, Jay was as passionate, tough and tireless as any player who’s ever worn the Revolution jersey,” Revolution Investor/Operator Jonathan Kraft said. “During his Revs career, no one was more determined to win or revered for his work ethic and leadership, both on and off the field. We are excited that Jay will bring these characteristics, along with a keen intellect, to his new position as our head coach. He understands the team’s heritage and already has a connection with many of our players and fans. During the interview process, Jay impressed Robert and me with his knowledge of how to build a roster and how teams can gain and maintain a competitive advantage. We are convinced that he will work well with General Manager Mike Burns and President Brian Bilello to rebuild the Revolution into a championship-contending team.”
Heaps is the sixth coach in the team’s history and the first New England native to coach the club.
“I am thrilled to accept this position,” Heaps said. “Throughout my playing career and with my involvement with the team after I retired, I’ve made no secret about my commitment to the Revolution, and I’m honored to be entrusted with this responsibility as head coach. I’d like to thank the Kraft family, Brian Bilello and Mike Burns for believing in me, and in the vision I have for the club as we move ahead. We have a strong base to build on, but we also have a lot of work to do as we look ahead to 2012.”
