Danny Cruz

LouCity FC manager Danny Cruz applauds the home crowd after a match in the 2024 season.

 Connor Cunningham

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Louisville City FC coach Danny Cruz departed the club to pursue a new opportunity in professional soccer.

Cruz was the back-to-back USL Championship Coach of the Year after joining the club as an assistant in 2018 before named head coach in 2021.

"On behalf of everyone at Louisville City, I want to sincerely thank Danny for everything he has given to this club and our community," LouCity's president, James O'Connor, said in a news release Tuesday. "Danny poured his heart into this team — first as an assistant and then as a head coach — and his impact is undeniable. Under his leadership we achieved tremendous success, winning trophies while continuing to build a roster that makes our city proud. I wish Danny and his family the very best for the future."

According to the Pioneer Press, Cruz is expected to join the coaching staff at Minnesota United FC in the MLS as an assistant.

Louisville | Kentucky | Indiana | Eric Crawford

Simon Bird was named interim head coach, and Paolo DelPiccolo will serve as the first assistant coach.

Cruz said it's difficult to put into words the gratitude he has for Louisville.

"This club and community have felt like home for the past seven years," he said in a news release. "I want to thank John Neace, the ownership group, James O’Connor, my staff, players, the front office and — of course, our fans — for the incredible amount of support my family and I have received over the years. It is never easy to say goodbye, but I feel like I have an opportunity that’s right for my family and me. I hope that over the years I have made you all proud. I know that I gave you all everything I had. The club remains in good hands, and I'm excited to watch it continue to do amazing things. I will remain forever grateful and honored to have been a part of a truly special place."

Bird joined LouCity as an assistant in 2021 after he was the director of the LouCity Academy. DelPiccolo spent eight seasons as a midfielder for LouCity and will now transition to a full-time role on the professional coaching staff.

The coaching staff will debut Wednesday when LouCity hosts Southern Indiana FC in the first round of the U.S. Open Cup.

This story may be updated.

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