Rick Schantz has joined the United Soccer League's Phoenix Rising FC after serving as FC Tucson's Head Coach since the franchise's first PDL season in 2012.

“As co-managing partners, Greg Foster and I could not be more pleased for Rick” said FC Tucson General Manager Jon Pearlman.

“FC Tucson has strived since its inception to develop its players, staff, and coaches for opportunities at the highest levels of pro soccer,” Pearlman added. “Rick has proven himself as one of the premier PDL coaches, and we wish him success in this next challenge.”   

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While Schantz joins Frank Yallop's Rising FC staff as an assistant coach ahead of the 2017 USL regular season, he will continue his duties as a managing member of FC Tucson.

In five seasons in charge of FC Tucson, Schantz guided the franchise to three divisional titles. He has helped the development of numerous current professional players, including Real Salk Lake forward Ricardo Velazco and 2016 USL Defender of the Year Aaron Long.

“That Rick has been invited to coach in the second division of American soccer is testament to the dedication he has shown to player development and to the soccer community," FC Tucson Managing Member Foster said. “As an organization, FC Tucson is proud to foster advancement through the American soccer pyramid."