CHESTER, PA (August 10, 2023) – Philadelphia Union today announced that the club has named Peter McDonnell as the Philadelphia Union Academy U17 Head Coach. McDonnell will join the U17 staff effective immediately.
“Peter's experience and passion for developing young talent makes him a great fit for our organization,” said Union Director of Academy and Professional Development, Tommy Wilson. “We believe his coaching ability will play a vital role in shaping the future of our academy players, and we are excited to see the positive impact he will have on their individual growth as well as the club.”
McDonnell was selected as a 2023-24 Elite Formation Coaching License (EFCL) participant, one of the most highly regarded and rigorous soccer coaching courses in the world, joining 25 other MLS-based coaches in the EFCL program in partnership with the French Football Federation (FFF). He also received his UEFA A License from the Football Association of Ireland in 2018, allowing him to be the head coach of youth teams up to the age of 18, reserve teams for top-flight clubs, and men's professional second-tier clubs.
Prior to joining the Union, McDonnell had been the Head Coach of Minnesota United FC’s U15 squad since 2021, most recently guiding them to a 2-1 victory over Arsenal FC in the 2023 Generation adidas Cup. Before that, he was an assistant coach at the University of Maine in NCAA Division 1 for four years and the Director of Coaching for Seacoast United North. He gained experience with the Football Association of Ireland and in NPSL with FC Copa and Seacoast United. McDonnell has lived in the USA since 2015 and holds a master’s degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education.
