Under my radar and off to Portland

So, it appears that way back in December assistant coach Chris Agnello parted ways with RSL to take the reigns as Head Coach and General Manager of the Portland Timbers of the USL First Division.

Before Agnello was an RSL assitant he virtually ran the Utah Blitzz (D3) as head coach and general manager. During his is time with the Blitzz they won two league championships in five seasons, including one in 2004 - their last year before pulling out of the USL to make way in the Salt Lake market for Real Salt Lake.

Although a Utah native, Agnello is familiar with Portland as he played college ball for Warner Pacific College located in that city.

Ironically, the Blitzz were knocked out of the Open Cup in 2004 by the Timbers. And the Blitzz also had a striker who would train frequently with the Timbers and then play his games with the Blitzz...but his name is escaping me.

As one who supportered the Blitzz for two seasons I can say that Agnello's teams always looked well coached and were entertaining to watch. Portland is getting one of the best of the D3 business, and it will be fun to watch how Agnello does at the second division level.


Hattip to TImbers Blog who mentioned Agnello in one of their latest posts that caught my attention and caused me to look up about Chris. Also, thanks to Soccer Blogs where I ran across the Timbers Blog.