ATL UTD 2 today announced the hiring of assistant coach Rob Valentino, making him the first member to join head coach Scott Donnelly’s staff.

“I’m pleased to bring Rob onto the staff here with Atlanta United 2,” Donnelly said. “Perhaps most importantly, Rob shares the club’s core values and focus, and in addition to his experience in the USL and pedigree as a player, he will be a great asset as we continue building this group.”

Valentino comes to Atlanta after serving as an assistant coach for Orlando City B since August 2015, where he was part of the technical staff for the USL side that began play in 2016.

Before becoming a coach, Valentino played professionally for eight years as a defender. He was drafted No. 13 overall in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft by New England Revolution and later played for Colorado Rapids and FC Tampa Bay before landing at Orlando City in 2011 for the team’s inaugural season. Valentino made 77 appearances over five seasons at center back, scoring nine goals, and won three regular season USL championships and two postseason titles with Orlando City. He was voted 2011 USL Defender of the Year and was named team captain after his first season. He played one season with Arizona United in 2015 before announcing his retirement.

Valentino attended the University of San Francisco where he played and served as team captain for four seasons. He was named the West Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Year as a sophomore and the West Coast Conference Player of the Year as a junior.

ATL UTD 2’s season begins on March 24 against New York Red Bulls II at Coolray Field for the club’s inaugural match. For the full schedule, and details on ticket information for ATL UTD 2, please visit www.atlutd/2.