The Montreal Impact promised the media a special announcement on Monday morning, and they did not disappoint. Well, I was surprised...
While the team was beginning the second part of their pre-season camp, Adam Braz came up in the stands to confirm his retirement from the game to become... the team manager.
[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK]
The first part of the announcement was known for a week (Radio-Canada reported the rumor last Tuesday), but the second part was unexpected.
The 29-year old defender, often known for his on-field outbursts and yellow cards, will now be in charge of the logistics for the first team as well as the visiting teams. Can you imagine that ? Adam Braz making sure that the visiting team's are settled at Saputo Stadium. Special...
Speaking about his temperamental character, Adam Braz did mention that it was a 'thing of the past' and that he was happy to take on his new position.
Braz also specified that he held talks with sporting director Nick De Santis to explain his intentions of working in sports management.
I took a lot of time to make this decision. I am retiring today because it has always been my long term goal to transition into sport management and the opportunity presented itself. I am extremely excited to remain with the Montreal Impact, the organization that I grew up with and which is a big part of my life. I envision my new role as managing the team in the most efficient and productive way on all aspects outside the field in order to ensure that the players and coaches can focus solely on their performance on the field.
Braz will be replacing current team manager Gabriel Quieti, who will be taking an administrative role at the main office.
On the field, coach Marc Dos Santos explained that he would like to see Mr. Versatile Simon Gatti take Braz's right back position.
Adam Braz, perhaps the opposition's most hated player, has worn the Impact shirt 145 times, winning two Championships and one Nutrilite Cup. He also played 13 games for Toronto FC in their 2007 inaugural season. Throughout his career in North America, he's accumulated 41 yellow cards and 4 sending offs.
So, what do you all think of this announcement ?
Photo : Impact de Montréal/Pépé