The Portland Timbers' newly-formed USL PRO team will be led by one of the nation’s best-known college coaches.
The team announced Thursday that Jay Vidovich, Wake Forest’s head coach the past 21 seasons and the architect of the Demon Deacons' 2007 NCAA national championship, has been hired to coach Timbers 2. Considered one of the nation's top talent developers, Vidovich has had 27 players taken in the MLS SuperDraft, including 11 first-round selections since 2005.
“Signing a coach of Jay’s considerable caliber and pedigree is both reflective of our commitment to the T2 team and his desire to coach at a higher level,” Timbers general manager Gavin Wilkinson said in a release. “We view this as a major investment in the program and a vital step in the development of our young players coming through the club. Jay brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and is a tremendous addition to our coaching staff. While Jay’s primary responsibility is as head coach of the T2 team, he will work closely with [Timbers head coach] Caleb Porter and implement the same style and system as the first team.”
The Timbers announced in October the formation of T2, who will play their home games at the University of Portland. Vidovich will also serve as an assistant coach with the first team.
“I couldn't pass up the opportunity to join the Portland Timbers organization as it is evident across the entire organization and the fan base that the Timbers strive to be successful at all levels,” Vidovich said in the release. “I will take great pride in leading T2 and helping the Timbers to achieve success. It has been an honor to lead the Wake Forest men’s soccer program for the last 21 years and I am thankful for everyone who has made this a special experience for me.”
- Get the latest PTFC news at Timbers.com
The Deacons advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the 13th time in the past 14 years this season, losing in a penalty-kick shootout in the first round to Maryland-Baltimore County. In 21 seasons, Vidovich compiled a 272-121-50 record and won five ACC regular-season titles.
He was first an assistant coach for eight seasons at the school before taking over when former head coach Walt Chyzowych died just before the 1994 season.
