Bethlehem Steel add two to technical staff

Jeff Cook and Stephen Hogan have been brought on today as assistant coaches for Bethlehem Steel FC. Cook had his longest stint of his career at the University of Dartmouth, composing a legacy that saw the Big Green win five conference titles and make seven NCAA tournament appearances, reaching the final 16 twice. Jeff left that position to join the Philadelphia Union in 2013 as the U-16 coach at the academy. Last season Cook had a largely successful run with the U-16's going 21-3-2 and earning a 2nd seed in the USSDA playoffs which berthed the team a spot in the national tournament, where they took home third place. Cook didn't say much about the hiring, but thanked Union ownership and expressed how excited he was to be involved with revitalizing a name with such a rich history in US Soccer.

Also joining the BSFC staff is recently announced Reading United Head Coach Stephen Hogan. The Dublin native joins the Steel as a former coach of the College of Saint Rose Men's Soccer team. Professionally Hogan had stints with half a dozen English clubs, notably Newcastle United and after his tour of Europe he was a vital piece for a very successful Reading United side from 2007-2010. Behind the scenes Hogan helped found First Touch Soccer USA which serves as a development aid for 5 youth academies in New York. Locally he also served as the technical director for BSA Rage from 2008-2010.

Both men bring in decades of youth development and coaching experience, as well as successful title hunting and deep postseason runs. Nothing indicates anyone feels that this will be an easy job, but I don't think too many people would seem better prepared for it.