Saint Louis FC introduces Anthony Pulis as the club’s new head coach for the 2018 season.
“Throughout the extensive head coach candidacy process, Anthony’s name was repeatedly brought up,” said Jeremy Alumbaugh, STLFC Vice-President & General Manager. “Not only has he been successful over the past few years as a head coach, but just as important, is the quality of the person that will be joining us here at the club.”
Pulis joins Saint Louis FC after managing Orlando City B for the last two seasons with a combined 19-23-20 record, including reaching the playoffs in the club’s first season in the USL. Despite not qualifying for the playoffs in 2017, he led the team to a 12-game unbeaten stretch during the season and received plaudits for his management of a fluctuating squad.
“I am delighted to be here at a fantastic club with a lot potential,” said Pulis. “St. Louis has a rich history and tradition in soccer and the support here is unbelievable. After talking with Patrick [Barry] and Jeremy [Alumbaugh], I believe we share the same values and goals for the club. I am excited to get started right away and build a team that the fans can be proud of and represents them well.”
Pulis will look to rebuild after a disappointing season that saw Saint Louis FC finish 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 9-14-9 record. The new coach and club management will be meeting to discuss player personnel moves over the coming weeks.
“Fans can expect exciting soccer,” said Pulis. “I want my teams to play with energy and intensity. I want my teams to pass the ball but do so with a purpose to get forward and score goals. It starts with being defensively solid and transitioning well, but ultimately I guarantee 100% commitment from myself and the staff to make sure we are producing good results and pleasing performances for the supporters.”
Pulis previously played for Orlando City in the USL from 2012-2014 where he made 44 appearances and scored four goals as a midfielder. He was born in Bristol, England and developed in the Portsmouth system before spending time with a number of domestic clubs including Stoke City, Southampton, and Stockport County. Pulis made a total of 90 professional appearances and scored 5 goals during his playing career. He also represented the Welsh national team at the U21 level, making four appearances for his country in 2005.
