Rhode Island FC Hires 1st Assistant Coach

“I am thrilled to have an opportunity to help Coach Smith build a club from the pitch up."

Jul 19, 2023

Rhode Island FC head coach Khano Smith announced today that the club has hired its first Assistant Coach, Dave McKay. With less than nine months to go until RIFC’s inaugural match, the hire marks the beginning of an expected flurry of activity as the club prepares to take the pitch.

“I am thrilled to have an opportunity to help Coach Smith build a club from the pitch up. Khano and I have worked together in the past and I cannot think of a better person to position Rhode Island FC for success from the first whistle,” McKay said. “Our team is a team for all Rhode Island and we will build a roster and style of play that every fan will be proud of. I cannot wait to get started.”

McKay worked on the coaching staff as Assistant Coach and Performance Coach of the Philadelphia Union from 2019-2021, during which they gained more points than any other MLS club. He has also worked with several other clubs and comes to Rhode Island with USSF A and UEFA A coaching licenses.

“I am incredibly excited to have Dave joining Rhode Island FC as an Assistant Coach. His extensive coaching experience for some of the top football clubs and his understanding and expertise on fitness makes him a valuable addition to our coaching staff,” Smith said. “Dave understands how to support the growth and development of players both on and off the field. He is an inspiring leader with the skills and spirit to help create an environment where our team can be successful from day one.”

Rhode Island FC will kick off next March at Beirne Stadium at Bryant College. Construction of their home stadium at Tidewater Landing in Pawtucket remains stalled following an interruption in funding, though construction is expected to restart later this summer.