Denis Hamlett's contract extended

June 15, 2018 (Official Press Release) The New York Red Bulls have extended the contract of Sporting Director Denis Hamlett, the club announced today. Additional terms of the multi-year deal were not disclosed. "On behalf of the entire organization, I'd like to congratulate Denis," said Red Bulls General Manager Marc de Grandpre. "His leadership and direction have made a positive impact across our organization and paved the way for a bright future." Since being named Sporting Director in February of 2017, Hamlett has filled a vacancy by naming a new Director of Red Bulls Academy and restructured the club's scouting department. The Red Bulls continue to lead the charge in player development, with Red Bulls Academy products and graduates of the club's USL affiliate accounting for 42 percent of all minutes played across 21 matches this season while contributing 14 goals and 20 assists. Hamlett put his stamp on the First Team roster, re-signing key players such as Bradley Wright-Phillips, Danny Royer, and Sean Davis, and bringing in immediate contributors such as the club's first Young Designated Player, Kaku, and center back Tim Parker. Hamlett also signed Michael Amir Murillo and Fidel Escobar, who are currently playing with their native Panama in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Bradley Wright-Phillips is tied for second in MLS with 10 goals, while Kaku leads the league with nine assists. Parker has immediately solidified the Red Bulls back line, and just earned his first cap for the United States National Team. Hamlett is a native of Puerto Limon, Costa Rica. Prior to being named Sporting Director, Hamlett served two years as an assistant coach with the Red Bulls. An MLS original, Hamlett retired from playing after the 1996 season and began a career that has included time as the head coach of the Chicago Fire, where he took the team to back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals.