Kitsap Pumas name James Ritchie new PDL head coach

Bremerton, Wash. – The Kitsap Soccer Club (Pumas) today announces James Ritchie has been named as the new Head Coach beginning with the 2012 season.

Originally from Glasgow Scotland James has been an Assistant Coach for all three years of the Pumas existence.

Kitsap Pumas Press Release

Specializing in goalkeeping and recruiting, he also has responsibility for the Pumas Youth Development outreach.

“In addition to his role with the Kitsap Pumas, James has done a remarkable job of reviving the Men’s Soccer Program at Olympic College. Olympic College has gone from a 2-42-2 record over the previous three years, to James taking them to the NWAAC Championship Final this year”, said Robin Waite, owner of the Kitsap Pumas.

He now faces a different challenge. The Pumas have won over 80% of league, league finals and open cup games in their brief history. Is he up for it? Of course says James, “I’m greatly looking forward to the challenges we will face in the defense of our title. I have spent three great years working with the Pumas and I look forward to many more. I am very lucky to have a fantastic coaching, playing and front office team to work alongside. It will be exciting to get all the players back on the pitch again. Being part of the national championship team in 2011 was one of the best experiences in my career. The coaching staff have already begun to put together a shortlist of possible playing targets we believe have the talent required to wear the blue and white hoops. I would like to thank all the fans that have supported me and the team over the years and ask for you to continue to come out and support the club. Coaches and players may come and go but, it is the fans that are the life blood of any football club. This is your club and it is my great honor to be part of it. Allez Pumas!”

James Ritchie, center, is the new head coach of the PDL Kitsap Pumas. (David Falk)

Dustyn Brim and Justin Stoddard return as Assistant Coaches rounding out the staff as three of the four 2011 PDL National Championship winning coaches return to the Pumas. Andrew Chapman, Head Coach for the Peninsula College Men’s Soccer team and two-year Assistant Coach with the Pumas, has also agreed to continue in his recruiting role going forward.

This Saturday December 3rd at 7:00 PM marks the opening match of the 2011/12 PASL Indoor season as the Kitsap Pumas welcome the South Sound Shock to the Olympic Soccer and Sports Center. Tickets are available at the door at $8 for adults and $5 for youth 5-15 (4 and under are free). Military and Senior discounts available.

For further information, please visit the Pumas’ website or call Robin Waite at team headquarters at 360-377-6008.

Earlier: James Ritchie was the focus of this recent goalWA.net exclusive article.

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