HUNTSVILLE — Huntsville City FC invited reporters to Wicks Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium on Thursday to officially introduce the team’s new head coach.
To lead the Boys in Blue, the organization has selected veteran coach Chris O’Neal. Prior to arriving in the Rocket City, O’Neal was the U-17 coach for Inter Miami CF Academy and was also with Sporting KC Academy for five years.
Putting pen to paper ✍️
We have named Chris O’Neal as our new head coach
📰: https://t.co/FUMy3A8JDi pic.twitter.com/ozLt0EUonF
— Huntsville City FC (@HuntCityFC) August 5, 2024
O’Neal is no stranger to Alabama having been the Team Adidas Director for the Vestavia Hills Soccer Club and a member of the UAB soccer team for three seasons.
“I loved Alabama when I was here. I think it’s a fantastic state,” O’Neal said. “The opportunity presented itself and it’s a fantastic opportunity because the project here is extremely exciting. The support that this city has shown this club so far has been absolutely incredible, and I think it’s one of the most unique atmospheres in this entire league and it’s extremely exciting to be a part of.”
O’Neal is ready to begin his new role Saturday when Huntsville City hosts Chattanooga FC.
“We have a fantastic group of players with immense potential to develop into top-tier prospects, a dedicated staff I’m eager to collaborate with, and a vibrant city that consistently shows its unwavering passion for this team,” said O’Neal. “I’m looking forward to a future marked by growth, success, and community pride.”
Matt Cairns, Huntsville City FC Director of Soccer Operations, believes O’Neal will be of great benefit to the growth of the team.
“We’re delighted to bring Chris in as the new head coach of Huntsville City FC,” Cairns said. “He brings a proven track record of developing top prospects across US Soccer and we look forward to seeing him work with our talented group of players here in Huntsville.”
The staff and the fans will get to see O’Neal work soon, too, when he makes his sideline debut for Huntsville City FC on Saturday.
The match will celebrate all things Rocket City. Attendees will get to enjoy and recognize many of their favorite destinations, officials, and celebrities. Kickoff is 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here.
Following the final whistle, fans can enjoy a fireworks show presented by the U.S. Marine Corps. It will be the first for HCFC and first at “The Joe” since the Huntsville Stars’ final season in 2014.
“For the fans and the players, we are excited,” O’Neal said. “We feel a renewed sense of energy and excitement, and we’re ready to see everyone out at ‘The Joe’ this Saturday.”
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