Nashville SC and head coach Gary Smith have agreed to a contract extension through the 2023 season, the organization announced Monday.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“I am very proud and honored to extend my time here in Nashville,” Smith said. “To be part of the development and growth of Nashville SC has been one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling periods in my coaching career and I look forward to many great times ahead.”
Smith, 52, guided Nashville SC to an 8-7-8 record (32 points) during the club’s inaugural season in 2020. Nashville SC defeated fellow expansion club Inter Miami in the play-in round of the playoffs and Toronto FC in extra time before falling to eventual MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew SC in the Eastern Conference semifinal.
“Given his achievements since being appointed as Nashville SC’s first ever MLS head coach, for me deciding to extend Gary’s contract was an easy and obvious decision,” Nashville CEO Ian Ayre said. “In a coach you always seek that ability to manage players individually, and at the same time bring them together as a team on the pitch to get results. Gary has shown his ability to do that effectively and successfully, and in the toughest of years. We are delighted that he will continue to manage our team as we continue this MLS journey.”
Nashville SC opens their season against visiting FC Cincinnati on Saturday.
–Field Level Media