Valour FC has replaced its general manager and head coach, citing a lack of on-field results.
The team’s president and CEO said in a statement Thursday that Rob Gale — who had served as coach and GM since the team’s inception in 2018 — has been let go, to be replaced by former professional player and MLS assistant coach Phillip Dos Santos.
“This morning Rob Gale was informed of the decision that we would not be renewing his contract heading into 2022 as Valour’s GM and head coach,” said Wade Miller.
“I want to thank Rob for all his work in our organization, for laying a strong foundation for the Club, and for his best efforts in coaching the club. This is a results-driven business and those results have fallen short of our expectations.”
Valour FC has just one win in their last 11 matches.
Miller said Valour’s assistant coach/GM Damian Rocke and goalkeeper coach Patrick Di Stefani will remain in their roles.
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“It’s a tough day for everyone,” said Dos Santos. “It’s a day where emotionally, it’s been hard.”
Dos Santos, who most recently served as an assistant with the Vancouver Whitecaps, played professionally in Europe and Africa, before becoming involved with the Canadian national team’s development program and coaching at various levels across North America.
“We have a good group of players in our locker room and I have no doubt that Phillip will work to improve our results to make Valour fans proud in the years ahead,” said Miller.
“Phillip has vast experience coaching at the professional level. We are excited to have him join the Valour FC family and work with our talented players and assistant coaches.”
The team is currently three points out of the last playoff spot with 10 matches remaining and the new coaches job is to get them back into the top 4 so the team can advance.
“There’s still a big belief that the playoff is something tangible,” Dos Santos said. “It’s something that we want. It starts on Sunday and again, it’s hard for me to judge what was before. I don’t want to get into these things and these discussions. Those are things that you assess as you’re here, but the mandate is to still get above that line.”
His first game as head coach is on Sunday when Valour FC battles York United at 1:00 PM.