ATLANTA – ATL UTD 2 announced on Wednesday the appointment of Stephen Glass as the club’s new Head Coach ahead of the 2019 USL Championship season. Glass moves up from Atlanta United’s Academy to lead the side following the departure of Scott Donnelly, who left the club to pursue a new opportunity at the beginning of the year.

“Coming from our Academy, Stephen understands the club’s philosophy and is a natural fit for Atlanta United 2,” said Atlanta United Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra. “He is someone who embodies the club’s core values and recognizes what it takes to be an Atlanta United player.”

Glass holds UEFA Pro, UEFA “A” and UEFA “B” coaching licenses and came to Atlanta after serving as Coaching Director of the Carolina Rapids, a youth club affiliated with MLS’s Colorado Rapids. Prior to his time with the Rapids, Glass was also the Coaching Director for Triangle Football Club in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Prior to coaching, Glass enjoyed an outstanding professional playing career in the English Premier League with Newcastle United (1998-2001), scoring seven times in 42 appearances. He spent two seasons in the English Championship with Watford before moving to his native Scotland and appeared in 86 matches for Hibernian in the Scottish Premier League.

He concluded his playing career as a member of the Carolina Railhawks in 2011. Overall, Glass made 380 professional league appearances, while also representing Scotland internationally.

ATL UTD 2’s preseason begins this Friday, Feb. 1. The team will play four preseason matches against Clemson University, South Georgia Tormenta FC and Charlotte Independence.