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Curt Onalfo to Assume Head Coaching Responsibilities of KC Wizards
The Kansas City Wizards announced Monday the hiring of the team's third head
coach, Curt Onalfo. Most recently an assistant for the U.S. Men's National
Team during the 2006 World Cup, Onalfo has coaching and playing experience
at every level from youth soccer to world-class competitions. This will be
his first professional head coaching job.
"After evaluating every facet of the team and interviewing several top-notch
candidates, Curt Onalfo stood out. He is an excellent evaluator of talent, a
tremendous communicator and has outstanding organizational skills,"
Technical Director Peter Vermes said.
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Well-respected throughout the soccer community, Onalfo came to the Wizards
highly recommended.
"Our research concluded that Curt Onalfo is considered by many as one of the
brightest young minds in U.S. Soccer. Having spent time with him throughout
the process, he's an even better family man and a perfect fit for our club
and the Kansas City community," Team President Robb Heineman said. "After a
lengthy and dutiful search, we are confident that Curt is the right choice
for the Wizards and we are anxious for him to get started."
One of his main goals aside from getting back to championship-caliber soccer
is creating a home environment that gives the Wizards a decided advantage on
the field. Onalfo believes that Kansas City fans will be eager to get behind
his squad once they see the hard work being displayed by players, coaches
and front office officials.
"This team will play an aggressive, attack-oriented style and it will be fun
to watch," Onalfo said. "The key is to not change who we are, whether we
play at home or on the road. We will be hard to play at home and we need our
fans to help ensure this."
Onalfo's scouting past has lead him to develop an eye for seizing up the
opposition.
"One of my strengths is the ability to tactically see the game; to exploit
an opponent's weakness," Onalfo said. "My job with the U.S. National Team
was to scout who we played."
Noted for his communication skills, Onalfo believes he is prepared for all
aspects of the job.
"I am also a strong manager of people," Onalfo said. "Managing players at
this level is one of the most important facets."
Wizards midfielder Kerry Zavagnin has seen this in his experiences with
Onalfo in the past.
"This is just another smart and aggressive move by the new ownership group
and Technical Director Peter Vermes," Zavagnin said. "Onalfo is up front and
honest with the team's best interest in mind. Last year is behind us and I
know I am looking forward to the 2007 preseason already."
PaddockTalk Perspective
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