ATLANTA — Matt Lawrey has been named Academy Director for Atlanta United, replacing Tony Annan. Originally joined the Academy for its inaugural season in July of 2016, Lawrey has had years of experience as assistant head coach, head coach, and Academy Manager.
“He has more than 10 years of managerial experience in youth soccer and has emerged as a real leader in our academy structure. We’re confident in his ability to make a seamless transition to this role.” Said Carlos Bocanegra, Atlanta United’s Vice President and Technical Director.
He came from the Richmond Strikers before joining Atlanta United. As an Academy Manager, he was also the head coach of U-19s since November 2020. He was originally U-12s head coach for the 2016 - 2017 season and then promoted as U-15s head coach for the next season. In November 2020, he took over U-19s and served as interim ATL UTD 2 assistant coach during the 2020 USL season.
From 2007 - 2010, Lawrey played collegiately at the University of Mary Washington and went to serve as an assistant coach for the men’s soccer program in 2011. He was also a youth coach at Stafford Soccer Club and Prince William Soccer Inc. in Virginia. He was awarded Positive Coaching Alliance Double-Goal National Coach of the Year in 2013. Lawrey holds USSF A and EFCL Licenses.
“Our goal is to promote and celebrate the top young players in the Southeast, as well as help, grow the game in Atlanta and the surrounding communities. Tony has set us up to succeed. Our staff is ready to continue his hard work.” Lawrey said.
Last August, the Atlanta United’s Academy U-13s through U-19s competed in MLS NEXT, the elite youth development platform created by Major League Soccer, while the U-12s competed in the Southeastern Clubs Champions League (SCCL). Atlanta’s U-19s are currently ranked first at the Southeast Division with its final regular-season match on Sunday, June 6. Lawrey will continue to serve as U-19s head coach through the end of the Academy season.