Josh Gros was born in Media, Pa., which is located about 10 miles from the 18,500-seat stadium under construction for the Philadelphia Union along the historic Delaware River waterfront in Chester.
He knows what to expect from the passionate fan base.
"The fans in Philadelphia are very excited all the time," Gros said. "I grew up as a Flyers, Eagles and Phillies fan. I still follow them. These fans are anxious for the Union to play."
So is Gros.
The 26-year-old Gros, a former All-Star with D.C. United, was just named team coordinator. He will be responsible for organizing all matters involving Union players, both on and off the field.
"I'm very excited and can't wait to get up there and start," said Gros, who had been living in Mechanicsburg. "I didn't know they were going to call. When (manager) Peter Nowak called, I was happy. I hadn't spoken to him in about eight or nine months. I didn't hesitate. It's a great opportunity. I'm so happy to have soccer as my full-time job once again."
Gros most recently worked as a civil engineer for VIKA, Inc., where he worked on designing projects to be completed for the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force and private sector.
Gros was a starter for D.C. United in all four of his years with the team and was an MLS All-Star in 2006. He was also a member of Nowak's championship team in '04. Gros' successful career was cut short when he sustained a concussion that caused nagging migraine headaches. The injury forced him to retire earlier than expected.
Now, he's back.
"I enjoyed engineering, but to be back with soccer is great," Gros said. "I've been playing this game since I was a kid. I feel I have a lot to offer. I'm looking forward to getting started and working with everyone with the Union."
For Nowak, it was a natural fit.
"As a player, Josh was well known for his relentlessness, both on the ball and off," Nowak said. "He worked just as hard on both sides of the ball and that work ethic will allow him to balance the wide variety of responsibilities he will receive with our club. Ultimately, he will help us set a very high standard for our players."
Added Union CEO and operating partner Nick Sakiewicz: "Josh's competitiveness and attention to detail will complement our soccer operation perfectly. His thorough understanding of Peter's philosophies and expectations will be invaluable, enabling him to help assess talent and serve as a liaison between Peter, our players and our front office. Bringing Josh on board represents another major step towards translating the core values of our organization to the pitch."
As a collegian, Gros received multiple honors including 2003-2004 Rutgers University Student Athlete of the Year, 2004 Big East Offensive Player of the Year, a 2003-2004 Big East Scholar-Athlete award and being selected as part of the 2004 Big East First Team.
There is obviously a big difference between NCAA competition and MLS. This is a new challenge that Gros relishes.
"I respect Peter Nowak and how he works, and I plan to work extremely hard with the Union," Gros said. "I feel like I can draw on my college experience and MLS experience to assist the players. It's a great situation for me. To come back near my home and work with the Union is a dream come true."
Andy Jasner is a contributor to MLSnet.com.
