CSA Extends Pellerud Contract To 2008

Ottawa, Ontario – The Canadian Soccer Association today announced they have extended the contract of Women’s World Cup Team head coach Even Pellerud to the end of the 2008 calendar year, following the conclusion of the Olympic Games in Beijing, China. The current contract was set to expire in August 2004.



“I am delighted that we have been able to reach a contractual agreement with Even Pellerud as he has done an outstanding job with our entire women’s team program,” said CSA President Andy Sharpe. “Since his arrival in Canada just three and a half years ago our women’s team has enjoyed unprecedented success and exposure.”



Pellerud took over the women’s program at the end of 1999, when Canada was eliminated in the first round of the 1999 Women’s World Cup in the USA. Since then, the team has played more than 50 games with victories over such world powers as the USA, China and draws with Norway and Sweden. He has overseen the introduction and development of women’s teams at the under-19, under-17 and under-16 level and has guided Canada to the 2003 Women’s World Cup.



“In these exciting times for women’s soccer in Canada, I am proud to have been offered a long-term extension on my contract,” said Pellerud, who won the 1995 World Cup as head coach of Norway. “This new agreement will enable me to be tightly involved in the further development of the women’s game in this country.



“I am delighted to have the extended opportunity to work with a wonderful team, with a lot of talent, passion and high goals. I look forward to contributing to even more progress in close companionship with the rest of my coaching staff. The CSA’s commitment to, and support of, the women’s program made the decision easy for me.”



Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.



Pellerud will take his World Cup Team to Mexico on Monday where they will play two friendlies against the women’s team on June 12 and 15.