MetroStars President and General Manager Nick Sakiewicz announced Thursday that the "Red and Black's" all-time leader in points and goals is returning to the club as the Director of Youth Soccer and Player Development. Though Giovanni Savarese will begin immediately, he will be formerly introduced to the media at the MetroStars 2005 Media Day on Monday, March 21.
"We are delighted and proud to bring the MetroStars all time points and goal leader back to the club," said MetroStars President and General Manager Nick Sakiewicz. "Giovanni brings a valuable balance of business (with a marketing degree) and great playing skills to our front office. This unique background will be key to managing our growing involvement in player development."
Savarese, 33, was member of the MetroStars from 1996-1998. During that time he was a fan favorite, as he appeared in 85 games, scoring 41 goals and registering 12 assists for 92 points. The career marks that he set with the Metros in points and goals still stand as team individual records.
After leaving the "Red and Black", Savarese spent the 1999 season with the New England Revolution and a portion of the 2000 season with the San Jose Earthquakes.
In his new stint with the Metros, Savarese's primary role will be to oversee the MetroStars Player Development system, which includes the Reserve Team, the Academy Teams (U14, U16 and U19) as well as the grassroots development training programs. In addition to these duties, Savarese will serve as a liaison to the youth soccer community by fostering new relationships and developing new alliances. He will also be very active in community appearances and local clinics.
"It's an honor to be named the MetroStars Director of Youth Soccer and Player Development because I am again able to be part of the club," said Savarese. "I am so happy to have the opportunity to give back to the soccer community that supported me so strongly when I was a player. I look forward to giving the young players in the tri-state area the support they need to become the best players that they can be."
The MetroStars open their season against Real Salt Lake at Giants Stadium on April 2 at 7 p.m. ET. The game will mark the first time that former Metros Clint Mathis and Eddie Pope return to play at Giants Stadium.
