Jason Kreis New RSL Head Coach

The all-time leading goal-scorer in MLS history has retired suddenly. But Jason Kreis won't be going anywhere - today he was named as the new head coach for Real Salt Lake, replacing John Ellinger, who was fired earlier in the day.
Kreis was the first player acquired in team history and will become their second coach and the youngest coach in MLS at 34 years and 127 days of age. Kreis will be in charge of the team from behind the bench as they meet the New York Red Bulls on Saturday. "While I know his leadership and ability on the field will be missed, we need his efforts to be completely focused on the many responsibilities that lie in front of him as our new head coach," said RSL owner Dave Checketts.

RSL has gotten off to a slow start in 2007, with just two points to show through their first four games, including a 4-0 stomping by Chivas USA, and a coaching switch has been on the minds of many fans lately.

On his move into coaching, Kreis said, "To be afforded this opportunity now is truly a blessing. What this does is allow me the opportunity to end one career and jump right into the next one without skipping a beat." The 108-goal scorer went on to say his move into coaching is "a complete and utter challenge, as well as a tremendous responsibility."