Players, Parents, Coaches, Friends, and Family,

From the feedback I have received over the last couple days, apparently not many people understand a move from Los Angeles to St. Louis. “How could you leave the beach?” they ask. Fair question.

The question I was asking myself though, was how could I stay in LA, with the opportunity that was in front of me here in St. Louis? After Pete Fusz had initially reached out and told me about his vision and plan for the future at Lou Fusz Soccer Club, my excitement about the prospects began to build. The deeper I dug, the more I was able to see of the foundation already put in place by Mr. Lou Fusz Jr. and Don Popovic. These two gentlemen have paved the way and allowed for Pete to step up to the plate and include me in the directive. Brand new fields at the park, a club stocked with competitive teams & coaches, perennial state cup champions, a staff ready & willing to take the next step in development, and a family with grand ambitions to enhance the lives of every family in St. Louis with their contributions to the sports landscape. Growing up in Philadelphia and visiting St. Louis from time to time, I always found a kindred spirit here in the Lou with the pride for the city and love for its sports teams. The total package made my decision an easy one.

Now having dedicated the majority of my life to the game of soccer, I couldn’t be more humbled by what it has given me back in experience, life lessons, and memories that will be ingrained in my mind for a long time. I am equally as excited to give back, and service the future generations that love this game in particular, and sports in general, as much as I do. The lessons that sport provides, the friendships that are formed, and the memories that stick with us forever, are sometimes easily overlooked in today’s fast paced lifestyle.

As you all know, the Fusz family has been influential in St. Louis for decades, and is committed to continuing that. I am honored to help in any way I can and thankful for the trust that has been bestowed in my direction. Having two little ones of my own with my wife Kelly, I can also see and understand how important the eyes of parents can be. Coupling the visions of the Fusz family, with feedback from parents, players, and coaches; we will step forward together into the next stages of our club.

I look forward to meeting all of you and spending time out at the park having a pass – with a ball or in conversation. Please do not hesitate to reach out, I have plenty to learn about St. Louis and couldn’t be more excited about what we will be building together.

Sincerely,
Dan Gargan
General Manager
Lou Fusz Athletic