In addition to hiring Kelly Altman as the men’s lead assistant coach and promoting Brendan Roth to second assistant coach/reserve team head coach; Valparaiso men’s soccer coach Mike Avery has added two more to his staff for the 2013 season.  Garrett Estrin has joined the staff as a volunteer assistant coach, while Brett Gorden has been named the director of soccer operations.  

Estrin has been added to the Crusader staff as a volunteer assistant coach.  Before coming to the Valpo, Estrin was the Director of Coaching for several clubs in the Southern California area.  In addition to his experience as a DOC, Estrin was a standout goalkeeper at Cal State Dominguez Hills, one of the premiere Division II programs in the country during his time there.  As a volunteer assistant coach at Valpo, Estrin's primary focus will be on the development of the goalkeepers on the squad.

"I have known Garret for many years," said Avery.  "His knowledge of the position, the game in general, and the many years of experience he has teaching and coaching the game will be a very strong addition to our team."

Gorden joins the staff after having played at IPFW.  Currently working on his Master's Degree in Sports Administration at Valpo, Gorden will contribute to the men's soccer program as the of director of soccer operations, a title previously held by J.J. Del Castillo.   In addition to this role, Gorden will also serve as the primary media contact for the Crusader men.

"Brett will be another great addition to a very strong staff," said Avery.  "He has a lot of talents that will really help us take our program to new and exciting levels."

Come out and support the Crusaders as they take on the Lewis Flyers in their final exhibition game at Brown Field on Monday, August 26th at 7:00 p.m.

Stay up to date with the men's soccer program by following the team on Twitter - @VUMSO