Alan Kelly, who served as United's goalkeeping coach for five seasons, passed away last night following a long bout with cancer. His work with United was clearly productive, as he helped develop championship-winning goalkeepers the likes of Mark Simpson, Tom Presthus and Scott Garlick.
Kelly came to United already famous for his legendary playing exploits, the result of a 20-year career in his native Ireland and England. He played the bulk of his club career, 14 seasons, for Preston North End. Kelly later coached at the club and was further honored with a section of the stadium named after him. On the international stage, he represented 47 full caps for Ireland and became the first goalkeeper elected to the Football Association of Ireland's Hall of Fame in 1994.
Kelly moved to the Washington, DC area in 1985 with a desire to train young goalkeepers. He later opened one of the first indoor playing facilities in the region and, in 1993, founded Alan Kelly Soccer Programs to offer year-round training options for players of all levels. Following his coaching stint with United, Kelly returned to coaching youth soccer and assisted with United's Academy programming.
Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with his family. We'll be back as we can with additional information.
