Stuart Neely was today named as the new Director of Football Operations for Pickering Football Club (PFC) with the appointment commencing September 3rd. Neely will lead the work of technical staff and coaches as we begin our open house and tryouts (September 14, 15, 21 and 22) where the Club is already seeing record registrations. 

Stuart stated that “The opportunity to work with good people in the game is always important as together we can develop a culture that fosters a growth in the game and the community. Accepting this role as Director of Football Operations provides the opportunity to do exactly just that”.

From PFC Executive Director Matt Greenwood, “Pickering FC is at a significant stage in our Club history where technical experience and reputation are essential to continue moving the Club to higher levels of the game. We have a fantastic pool of players here at all levels, with coaches that are committed to promoting a ‘person before the player’ culture.

Stuart's leadership style clearly aligns with that vision, and we are excited to bring his know-how to our technical staff and our players”.
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General Manager Corrado Roccasalva who led the hiring process commented:

“The hiring process has been long, and we appreciate the PFC Members for their patience. In our search for a Director of Football Operations (DFO) our goal was simple, attract an industry leader with an exemplary reputation, skill set and experience. We believe that Stuart Neely checks all those boxes, and we are extremely happy to welcome him to the PFC family!”

Stuart’s Journey Back to Ontario

Neely, a former Canada U20 Women’s Head Coach and U20 Men’s Assistant Coach started his Canadian coaching career with Centennial College back in 1994. Since then, his extensive career has taken him to New Zealand and the US as well as key roles with Ontario Soccer, Manitoba Soccer and Vancouver Whitecaps. Most notably Stuart has had two successful stints with the Toronto FC Academy system before serving three years with Canada Soccer as the Manager of Coach Education from 2018-2021.

Stuarts experience truly covers all levels of the game including most recent work with Pacific FC and Vancouver FC in the Canadian Premier League. His reputation and experience across all levels of the Canadian Soccer system is unparalleled.

Stuarts’ vision moving forward is simple, “We must be accountable for the pathway forward for all, while meeting expectations and laying the foundation for new people to be involved in our club”.

​​Stuart can be contacted at dfo@pickeringfc.ca.