VANCOUVER, BC - Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced on Thursday that Stewart Kerr has been named the club's goalkeeper coach, joining the technical staff on a two-year contract through 2018.



“We're pleased to welcome Stewart to our coaching staff,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge from the UK, as well as MLS, and has helped develop a number of quality goalkeepers.”



During his coaching career, Kerr has worked with talented goalkeepers such as England's John Ruddy, Ireland's Darren Randolph, former TFC and current Seattle Sounders FC goalkeeper Stefan Frei, and current Orlando City SC goalkeeper Joe Bendik. Additionally, Kerr helped prepare former TFC and Brazilian national team goalkeeper Julio Cesar for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.



“First of all, I would like to thank everyone at Orlando City SC for their passionate support over the past year,” added Kerr. “Vancouver is a club that I have always admired from afar and I'm excited to work with Carl and his staff, as well as a very strong group of goalkeepers. I know that this club has some of the best supporters in the league, and we'll be working hard every day to make them proud."



Kerr comes to Vancouver after spending the 2016 MLS season coaching with Eastern Conference side Orlando City SC. Prior to joining Orlando, Kerr spent three seasons as the goalkeeper coach at Toronto FC. The native of Bellshill, Scotland began his coaching career in his home country, working with Airdrie United during the 2008-2009 Scottish First Division season, then moved to Motherwell FC in the Scottish Premier League from 2009 to 2011.



As a player, Kerr began playing professionally at 18-years-old with Scottish Premier League giants Celtic FC, later going on to play with English clubs Swindon Town, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Wigan Athletic.



Whitecaps FC kick off the year with CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal matches versus New York Red Bulls, first on Wednesday, February 22 at Red Bull Arena, then on Thursday, March 2 at BC Place. The 'Caps MLS regular season opener is Sunday, March 5 when they host Philadelphia Union at BC Place. 2017 season tickets are available from $41/month, more information at whitecapsfc.com/tickets .