Irishman with Premier League experience set to lead CLFC into 2025 and beyond.
CHARLOTTE, NC (Wednesday, November 13, 2024) – Crown Legacy FC today announced the Club has appointed Gary Dicker as Head Coach.
The 38-year-old Irish native joins Crown Legacy FC from Brighton & Hove Albion where he most recently served as an assistant for the U-21 side in the Premier League 2.
“I am excited and grateful to become the next head coach of Crown Legacy FC,” said Dicker. “I believe my coaching experience will be beneficial to developing and attracting the next generation of footballers for Charlotte FC. The Club’s philosophy and dedication to bringing through the next generation of talent made this an opportunity I could not pass up. I would like to thank Tommy, Bobby, Darrius, Zoran and the rest of the CLTFC organization for entrusting me with this position, and I am eager to get started with the staff and players.”
Dicker began his managerial career with Brighton & Hove Albion in 2021 where he served as a player coach for the U-23 squad. Following his stint as a player coach, he stepped into the role of U-18 Professional Development Coach. In 2022, he was then promoted to U-21 Assistant Manager.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Gary as the next head coach of Crown Legacy FC,” said President Darrius Barnes. “Gary’s appointment furthers our strategic approach to the Pro-Player Pathway which has been fruitful since launching CLFC in 2023. We are excited to bring in Gary and believe he has the experience and knowledge to not only develop and progress our young talent within Crown Legacy FC but also create a winning environment that aspires for excellence.”
His managerial tenure followed a distinguished 15 year playing career with Irish, English and Scottish clubs, most notably with Brighton & Hove Albion and Kilmarnock. He helped usher Brighton into the English Championship with a promotion winning year during the 2010-11 season.
“Gary is a young manager who fits perfectly into what we are building at Crown Legacy FC,” said Technical Director Tommy Wilson. “Hiring Gary from a top English Premier League club is a testament to the strength of our organization, and a statement of intent which shows we are focused on player development. His track record at Brighton makes him the ideal candidate to lead us forward, and we are excited to bring him onboard.”
Dicker will arrive in Charlotte in December to begin preparations for the 2025 Crown Legacy FC season.
