June 23 | Written By IPZ
Jim Curtain to Lead Austin FC
Jim Curtin, who led the Philadelphia Union to seven MLS Playoff Cup appearances, has been named the head coach of Austin FC, following the conclusion of the 2026 season.
“I am incredibly honored to be named the Head Coach of Austin FC. This is a moment I will never forget, and I’m grateful to Anthony Precourt, Andy Loughnane, and the Club’s ownership group for the trust placed in me,” said Curtin. “From our very first conversation, they shared a vision for Austin FC that is bold, ambitious, and built for the long term. Their belief in what this Club can become is contagious, and I’m proud to help bring that vision to life.”
“I had several other opportunities, both within MLS and abroad, but none of them excited me the way this project did. The city of Austin is unlike anywhere else and the chance to compete for this community was simply too compelling to pass up. This Club has some of the finest facilities in all of MLS, and Q2 Stadium is one of the great venues in North American soccer. To walk out in front of the supporters, in that atmosphere, is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. The passion of the Austin FC faithful is known across the League, and our goal will be to give you a team that fights and makes you proud every time we take the field.”
Curtin played collegiate soccer at Villanova University before spending nine seasons in Major League Soccer with Chicago Fire and Chivas USA. During his playing career, he won an MLS Supporters’ Shield, two U.S. Open Cups, and earned MLS All-Star honors in 2004.
Watch a brief interview with Jim here.
Bo Montgomery Signs with BK Opava
Bo Mongomery, a 6-foot-5 combo guard entering his second professional season, has signed with BK Opava and will continue his career in the Czech Republic National Basketball League. With a reputation for consistency and versatility, Bo last year established himself as a strong American guard with USK Praha, also in the Czech Republic, where he averaged 15 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds a game.
“This is an awesome opportunity for me this season to be back in the Czech NBL and compete in other European competitions with BK Opava,” said Bo. “It’s a great club with an incredible fan base and I can’t wait to get started.”
“I am very happy that we managed to bring a player like Bo in the combo guard position,” said Opava head coach David Zach. “He will bring athleticism and dynamic ability to our game, which are crucial for our style. Also a good defender, he will be one of our important building blocks for next season.”
BK Opava is a five-time NBL Champion and six-time Czech Cup Champion.
Knicks Bring Back Messi Memories
During the Knicks’ great run to the NBA championship, there were countless stories of parents and children relishing in watching the moments together. That’s Understandable.
And then watching Messi score his Hat Trick in Argentina’s first game in the World Cup, it brought back great memories for my daughter and me.
She was a soccer player, and loved watching Messi, who was then in his early career (17 years ago) at Barcelona…but already considered one of the best players in the world. So, for her 16th birthday this dad decided to surprise her with a trip to Barcelona to see Messi play. He delivered – a hat trick against Sevilla.
Watching him last week brought back great memories. Cherish those moments.