Forward Madison FC’s search for a head coach has officially concluded. FMFC is pleased to welcome Matt Glaeser to the organization as Head Coach and Technical Director. Glaeser brings years of playing and coaching experience to Madison and looks to move the Flamingos towards their first championship in USL League One.

Glaeser comes to Wisconsin after spending one season as an Assistant Coach and Director of Goalkeeping for Sacramento Republic FC in the USL Championship. Prior to Republic FC, Glaeser spent four seasons as an Assistant Coach with Real Salt Lake and Real Monarchs. During his first season with Real Monarchs in 2017, Glaeser was instrumental in the club lifting the 2017 USL Regular Season Shield. In 2019, Glaeser helped lead the Monarchs to their first ever USL Championship title.

“I’m excited to be at an ambitious club like Madison where the foundation for success has already been laid,” said Glaeser. “I’m ready to get to know the fans and community that support this club so well.”

Overall, Glaeser wants the Forward Faithful to know his plan for the 2022 USL League One season is clear: “I look forward to creating a distinct culture and a team-first mentality while implementing a unique identity and style of play that will allow us to be successful and push for trophies,” Glaeser expressed.

“We are confident he will succeed in Madison,” Forward Madison Chief Operating Officer and Owner Conor Caloia said. “His passion for the game and competitive drive are evident. In surveying a focus group of fans and supporters during the search, there was a desire for a Club with a clear identity on the pitch and Club that showed grit for 90 minutes every match. As a former player and as a Coach, Matt has demonstrated this grit and worked through the challenges that have come his way and had success. His energy is infectious and we are excited for our fans to get to know Matt on and off the pitch.” 

While playing goalkeeper during his undergrad at University of Hartford, Glaeser was named the America East Goalkeeper Conference of the Year, as well as the NSCAA Northeast Region Goalkeeper of the Year. Glaeser joined the United Soccer League Second Division with the Western Mass Pioneers in 2008. In 2009, he played internationally and was signed to Finnish club Pallo-lirot. Glaeser also had successful stints as a player for FC Tampa Bay and Fort Lauderdale Strikers from 2010-2013 before signing with the USL Pro team, the Wilmington Hammerheads in 2014. During his time with the Hammerheads, Glaeser was a goalkeeper while also being an Assistant Goalkeeper Coach and Community Development Coordinator. In 2015, Glaeser retired as a player and became a full-time assistant for Wilmington, the initial step in his coaching journey.

The first opportunity for fans to interact with Coach Matt Glaeser will be at Palette Bar and Grill for “Just Coffee With Coach Glaeser,” this Saturday, December 4th at 10 am. Complimentary coffee will be served to all in attendance.