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The pipe dream of Zach Scott being a player-coach within the Sounders organization took a huge hit today as early on Thursday the Seattle Sounders announced that assistant coach Ezra Hendrickson would become the first-ever head coach for the USL-PRO side S2. Hendrickson has 18 years of experience within MLS, having won three MLS Cups as a player. The past six years have seen the St. Vincent man as an Assistant Coach for the Sounders, as well as the Sounders Reserve League Head Coach.
"After six years of experience with the organization, Ezra has earned the respect of the players and has gotten to know our Academy very well. His years with the First Team will prove to be a huge asset as we look to develop a team that gives players valuable minutes in a professional environment." - S2 GM Andrew Opatkiewicz
Under Hendrickson's leadership, the Sounders Reserve Team went 19-13-7, and his knowledge with both the first team players and the youth academy will surely be invaluable in his new role.
"This a great opportunity for Ezra and allows for good continuity in preparation for the S2 players, the First Team and Seattle Sounders FC overall. Ezra knows what we're looking for, knows what it takes to play at this level, and he provides a great bridge from S2 to the Sounders FC First Team." - Seattle Sounders Head Coach Sigi Schmid
It wasn't stated whether this meant Hendrickson will also remain in his role as First Team Assistant Coach. But surely it was important to the organization to have the job go to someone with whom they were comfortable with the future the Sounders players.
"I feel very honored to be appointed Head Coach of S2. Player development is a very important and integral part of any club. I'm looking forward to developing our younger players as they come through the program, so that we as an organization can have that sustained growth and success." - S2 Head Coach Ezra Hendrickson
As of today, no player signing have been announced for S2, though new HGP Victor Mansaray would appear to be a prime candidate.