Monday April 10, 2006

(Atlanta, GA – April 10, 2006) The Atlanta Silverbacks have announced they are creating a new youth club to be a part of the Silverbacks’ multi-faceted soccer organization. The club will operate out of Atlanta Silverbacks Park where teams will train in a professionalized environment at the premier venue in the region. With the addition of the youth club, the Silverbacks continue to create a complete soccer organization whose unique model promotes soccer while providing a place for all to play and enjoy the sport. The new youth club adds another level of play within the Silverbacks’ organization, further deepening the opportunities with the Atlanta Silverbacks and the connection between the youth and the pro.
           The Silverbacks also announced Ted MacDougall as the Director of Coaching for the youth club. MacDougall, a former professional soccer player who once scored nine goals in one English F.A. Cup game, has extensive coaching experience spanning more than 20 years. He began his coaching career in 1985 and worked with teams such as the San Jose Earthquakes (MLS), Portsmouth FC Reserves (English Premier League), and the United States Air Force Academy. MacDougall will bring valuable experience, both playing and coaching, to the Silverbacks' organization. The USSF “A” Licensed coach has most recently been the Director of Coaching for the boys program at the Tucker Youth Soccer Association (TYSA).
          “I’m thrilled about the opportunity to work with the Silverbacks. I spent a long time in the professional environment and it’s good to be given the chance to work in the professional ranks again and continue to develop young talent,” commented Ted MacDougall.
          In addition to running the Silverbacks’ youth club, MacDougall will serve as an assistant coach to Jason Smith for the Silverbacks Men’s USL First Division Team. During his 16-year tenure in the professional ranks in England, MacDougall received numerous honors. Aside from his unheard of nine goals in one game, MacDougall is the fifth best goal-scorer in England (goals to games ratio). MacDougall scored goals for many highly renowned teams during his 550 games at the highest level: Liverpool, Manchester United, West Ham United, Southampton, Norwich City, Bournemouth, and Blackpool.  He was inducted into the Norwich City FC Hall of Fame and also received the European Golden Boot Award for being the top goal scorer. MacDougall also recorded seven national team caps while representing his home country of Scotland.