Peter McDonnell named head coach of Philadelphia Union U17 team

“Peter’s experience and passion for developing young talent makes him a great fit for our organization,” stated Union Director of Academy and Professional Development Tommy Wilson. “We believe his coaching ability will play a vital role in shaping the future of our academy players, and we are excited to see the positive impact he will have on their individual growth as well as the club.”

McDonnell was selected as a 2023-24 Elite Formation Coaching License (EFCL) participant, one of the most highly regarded and rigorous soccer coaching courses in the world, joining 25 other MLS-based coaches in the EFCL program in partnership with the French Football Federation (FFF). He also received his UEFA A License from the Football Association of Ireland in 2018, allowing him to be the head coach of youth teams up to the age of 18, reserve teams for top-flight clubs, and men’s professional second-tier clubs.

Prior to joining the Union, McDonnell was the head coach of Minnesota United FC’s U15 squad since 2021. Before that, he was an assistant coach at the University of Maine in NCAA Division 1 for four years and the Director of Coaching for Seacoast United North. He gained experience with the Football Association of Ireland and in NPSL with FC Copa and Seacoast United. McDonnell, a native of County Mayo in the Republic of Ireland, has lived in the U.S. since 2015 and holds a master’s degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education.

McDonnell succeeds Tobias Nubbemeyer, who took a job as U19 coach at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in Germany.