Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union Academy has announced new staffing hires for the 2025 season in preparation for the upcoming MLS NEXT competition. The U17 age group has been replaced by U18 for the 2024–2025 season, following the U17 team's success as back-to-back Generation adidas Cup champions in 2024.

The academy's latest additions include Ben Moane as U15 Head Coach, Jamie Cleland as Head of Academy Goalkeeping, Veronica Dilzer as Head of Medical, Academy & Professional Development, and Shabab Rahman as Academy Performance Coach.

Jon Scheer, Director of Academy and Professional Development, expressed enthusiasm about the new hires: “We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional individuals to our Academy staff as they all bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that will contribute to our mission of developing the next generation of Homegrowns for the Philadelphia Union." He added that their commitment would be crucial in helping players reach their full potential.

Ben Moane joins from Stanford University's Men's Soccer program where he was a top assistant coach. His background includes leadership roles with Boston Bolts. The U15 team is set to play against Real Jersey FC on February 8th.

Jamie Cleland comes from the University of Delaware Men's Soccer program where he was Goalkeeping Coach and Assistant Coach. He also served as Director of Goalkeeping at TSF Academy.

Veronica Dilzer transitions from her role with the Philadelphia Phillies as an Associate Athletic Trainer. Her previous experience includes nearly four years at Lincoln University overseeing strength and conditioning and sports medicine.

Shabab Rahman arrives from New York City FC where he held various performance coaching positions including Interim Performance Coach for NYCFC II.