Reno 1868 names Russell first coach

RENO — Reno 1868 FC has named Ian Russell as head coach for its inaugural 2017 season, the club announced today.

“This is a huge step for our team,” said Andy Smith, general manager of Reno 1868 FC. “With Ian’s significant background, both playing and coaching in MLS, we know our team will be in good hands.”

Russell played for the University of Washington and later started his professional career with the Seattle Sounders of the USL First Division in 1998 and 1999. Russell was drafted by the San Jose Earthquakes in 2000 and continued to play seven seasons in MLS. Six of those seasons came with the Earthquakes, where Russell helped the team win two MLS Cups in 2001 and 2003.

“I’m extremely excited for this unique opportunity,” said Russell. “I’m very thankful for my time with the Earthquakes and to continue on within the club’s organizational pyramid is a dream come true. I’m looking forward to meeting the people of Reno and leading a team they can be proud to support.”

In 2008, Russell returned to the Earthquakes as an assistant coach, a position he held for eight seasons. He helped lead the club to the postseason twice, while earning the Supporters’ Shield for best regular season record (19-6-9) in 2012. Russell was also instrumental in the Quakes’ international and collegiate scouting efforts, and briefly helped oversee the club’s youth development as the academy’s technical director. He served as the Earthquakes interim head coach for the final two games of the 2014 season and holds a U.S. Soccer Federation “A” coaching license.