That Soccer Guy

According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, VCU has “fired” (i.e., did not renew his contract) their men’s soccer coach Tim O’Sullivan. O’Sullivan has been with VCU for 15 years. VCU won the CAA Title between 2002-04 and has not done as well since. Here is who I think VCU need to look at.

I know he probably sees himself going elsewhere pro (which I think he mentioned recently) but I think a guy like Tom Soehn (former DC United head coach) would be a good pick up. He has the pro experience plus he knows how to prepare players that intend to enter the MLS SuperDraft.

Two other names that I would watch out for (to keep it local) is Mike Burke and Ronnie Pascale. Both play for the Richmond Kickers (along with a bunch of VCU players) and they are probably reaching the end of their time playing. I know that both have been coach youth teams (Pascale being a former VCU Goalkeeping Coach).

I’m very curious to see where VCU goes with this one. I would love to see VCU bring in someone who wants to press. It’s very risky, but if done right makes for very good matches. I think one key is to look at a coach who has seen some success in the MLS, whether as a head coach or even an assistant. These guys would have the right ideas, like I said about Tom Soehn, on how players should play and prepare beyond college.