Real Maryland Monarchs News Release - www.realmaryland.us
Friday, December 5, 2008
SILVER SPRING, MD -- Real Maryland FC announced Coach Hudson’s selection for his coaching staff of the USL Second Division side. John O’Hara will be joining the team as the Top Assistant and Matt Leiva, currently the Head Coach at Paul VI Catholic High School, will join as the Goalkeeper Coach.
O’Hara finished the 2008 season with D.C. United of MLS, where he saw time with their Reserve Team. Prior to that, he served as the captain of the Wilmington Hammerheads of the United Soccer Leagues’ Second Division.
“I am pleased with Anthony’s selection for his staff,” said General Manager David Noyes. “John is not only a talented individual who has played in the area, but is a quality person that embodies the professionalism we want our players to hold.”
O’Hara’s playing career is extensive. As a youth he represented the Republic of Ireland at the U-15 and U-18 level. He landed in the United States where he played for George Mason University. While a four-year starter, O’Hara earned numerous accolades such as CAA Rookie of the Year and NSCAA Academic All-America Team while setting many GMU records.
His Career, since school, has seen him lead the professional side the Sligo Rovers to the Premier Division in Ireland, earn PDL Goalkeeper of the Year with the Richmond Kickers Future and was one of the first players to sign with the USL-1 2007 expansion team, the Carolina RailHawks.
“We’re very proud to have John join us, not only on the playing side but as a coach,” said Coach Hudson. “He brings with him a level of professionalism that we aim to instill next season.’’
A former collegiate goalkeeper, Leiva played at Virginia Intermont College in Bristol, VA making the National Tournament in 2003. Leiva then played for the Vermont Voltage in the PDL for one season, and then continued his stay with the Voltage as the goalkeeper coach for the team as well as the Lady Voltage of the W-League.
“Matt is a good fit for our club,” said GM David Noyes. “He will compliment Real Maryland nicely at both the Professional Level as well as at the Youth Level.”
