News

The Illinois Piasa have announced the hiring of their former goalkeeper, Jason Norsic, to lead the team as Head Coach for the 2012-13 PASL season.

This move comes after former coaches Joe Reiniger and Justin McMillian stepped down due to scheduling conflicts throughout the coming season. Neither thought it would be fair to the team if they were not able to be fully committed. It is unclear at this point if Reiniger will continue to play with Piasa, but McMillian will stay with the team, anchoring the defense, and will be joined by many of his teammates from last season. Player signings are expected to be announced starting this week.

Jason Norsic attended and played soccer at Triad High School in Troy, Illinois. His collegiate career took him to Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, Illinois and McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois. Jason was with the St. Louis Steamers (MISL) in 2005-06 and later played goalkeeper for Swanner United FC (PASL-Premier), St. Louis Illusion (PASL), Piasa FC (PASL-Premier), and Illinois Piasa (PASL). He brings seven years coaching experience, and a wealth of knowledge from playing top level soccer, to the team. Jason is currently employed at SIUE and runs a soccer goalkeeper training business, STL Goalies ( www.stlgoalies.com ). Jason and his wife, Jessica Partney Norsic, are expecting their first child next spring.

"Though unfortunate that the others couldn't continue, we are very happy that Jason is available and willing to take on this role. He is going to do a fantastic job. He knows the game and has a great work ethic and great relationship with the players," said Illinois Piasa General Manager Matt Williams.

"I am very thrilled and feel honored that I was selected as the head coach. Being a part of the PASL from the beginning, I have seen the great progress the league has brought to its teams. I believe that the owners and players have a great thing going from last year and I look forward to continuing the progress that coaches Joe, Justin, and Elvir ended on. With a great selection of players to choose from and a number of returning veterans to lead the way, I feel that we have the chance to not only win our division but to go on to win a championship. This first game will be very exciting. Detroit has a good team and with the way things ended last year, we are ready for retribution." said Illinois Piasa Head Coach Jason Norsic.

Illinois Piasa opens the 2012-13 PASL season on November 3 at 7:35 pm at The Sports Academy, Glen Carbon, Illinois against the Detroit Waza. Tickets are now on sale at www.illinoispiasa.com/ticket-information.