:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61823435/OCSC_Braeden_Cloutier2.0.jpg)
Orange County SC announced on Wednesday they have signed head coach Braeden Cloutier to a multi-year contract extension.
Cloutier, 44, is finishing up his first season as Orange County head coach, leading the team to a first-place USL Western Conference finish with the playoffs coming up this weekend. Blending youngsters and veterans, Americans and international players, Cloutier, who had been with the Orange County organization as an assistant coach since 2015, has implemented a style where OCSC scores regularly and plays a dynamic, attacking soccer. And it’s been successful in the regular season.
“We are delighted to announce that Braeden has signed a multi-year contract extension” said general manager and executive vice president Oliver Wyss in a team statement. “Braeden is a proven winner who leads by example with his hard work and dedication to the club and its players. He has established a championship mentality in the locker room and we are excited to see him build on the momentum he has established with this year’s historic season, including winning the regular season Western Conference. Braeden is fully aligned with the goals of the organization to compete at a championship level while developing young talents that our fans and the entire Southern California soccer community are excited about.”
“I’m very excited for the opportunity to build upon what we have created here in Orange County this season. I want to thank James [Keston, Orange County SC owner] and Oliver for their belief in me and the commitment that they have shown to me with this new contract. Orange County is my home and I want to continue to grow this organization, this special community and its young talented players for years to come”, said Cloutier.
Cloutier and Orange County SC will be in action on Saturday, when they host Saint Louis FC in the first round of the playoffs, at Orange County Great Park. The game is scheduled to kick off at 7 pm PT.
What do you think? Leave a comment below!