Sounders name ex-coach Schmetzer as assistant

Brian Schmetzer has been named the top assistant coach for the Seattle Sounders FC staff, joining head coach Sigi Schmid as the new expansion club prepares for its first season in Major League Soccer

Schmetzer served for seven seasons as the head coach of the Sounders' United Soccer Leagues First Division club. The 46-year-old guided Seattle to USL-1 championships in 2005 and 2007, and U.S. Open Cup semifinals in 2007 and 2008. The USL club was disbanded after the 2008 season.

"I'm excited to work with Brian," said Schmid. "He brings great knowledge of the Seattle area, the history of the USL-1 Sounders, and a wealth of coaching experience. That, coupled with his past playing experience, makes him the ideal assistant coach."

Schmetzer played for 15 years at various levels of American soccer, including the NASL and Major Indoor Soccer League.

"Having been born and raised in Seattle, and having lived most of my life here, I love this city and I couldn't have scripted a more perfect career path," said Schmetzer.

Though Schmetzer was considered for the top post with the Sounders in their transition to become an MLS club, he was ultimately passed over in favor of Schmid. Still, he claimed to have no hard feelings over the snub.

"I feel lucky, first to have been chosen to coach the USL Sounders, then to be considered along with Sigi and some other outstanding candidates for the MLS head coaching job," Schmetzer said. "Now, I'm working with a great coach in Sigi, in my home city, for what is rapidly becoming the best club in the business. It seems everything is falling into place."