PISCATAWAY, N.J. – Rutgers men's soccer head coach Dan Donigan has announced the hiring of Gerry McKeown as a volunteer assistant coach with the program on Friday McKeown arrives "On The Banks" with over 30 years of coaching experience ranging from youth soccer to college and semi-professional teams, including U.S. Youth National Teams.

"We are very happy and excited that Gerry has joined our coaching staff," said Donigan. "It's always great to have someone with Gerry's knowledge, experience and perspective on staff. He has worked with players of all ages from all over the world and will bring an amazing amount of soccer intelligence to our program. Gerry works locally and nationally with many talented players and we are fortunate to have him to share his wisdom."

McKeown has been the Executive Director of the Players Development Academy since 2001 and the Director of U.S. Club Soccer's Id2 Program since 2007, helping elite youth soccer players to have the opportunity to be identified, developed and scouted by U.S. Soccer. He also brings experiences from stints working with the U15 and U18 U.S. National Teams, as well as the New Jersey and Region I Olympic Development Programs.

Beginning his coaching career at the collegiate level at Jersey City State College as an assistant, McKeown has had stops at Stevens Tech, North Carolina State (women) and Montclair State and was the head coach from 1993-1997 at St. Peter's College. He has also coached at Pingry and Kearny High Schools, along with semi-professional teams the Kearny Scots and N.J. Riptide.

A JUCO All-American at Mercer County College before moving on to finish out his collegiate career at North Carolina State, McKeown helped the Wolfpack to its first NCAA Tournament appearance. Professionally, he has played with the Carolina Lighting' (ASL), St. Louis Steamers (MISL), Carolina Gold (USL) and FC Kriti (Hellenic League).

"Gerry's resume speaks volumes of what he can bring to our program on a daily basis," added Donigan. "I know our coaching staff, players and support staff are happy to welcome him to Rutgers University and our men's soccer program."
 
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