EX-MT. CARMEL STAR TO COACH LAFC’S USL TEAM

Steve Cherundolo is more comfortable blazing new paths than he is following ones already well worn.

He spent his professional soccer career in Germany, beginning at a time when few Americans played there. He coached for two clubs and the national team program in Germany despite the fact few Americans have coached there.

Now the former Mt. Carmel High star has returned to Southern California to break more new ground as manager of the Las Vegas Lights, who have signed a unique deal to serve as LAFC’s affiliate in the second-tier USL Championship.

“It is all a work in progress,” said Cherundolo, who played in two World Cups. “But I think the idea is fantastic.”

The idea is Cherundolo and his players will live and train in Southern California but play home games in Las Vegas. That will allow the players and staff to interact with LAFC’s first team on a daily basis while competing for an established club beginning its fourth season in the USL.

“There will be a close relationship. How close, we’ll figure that out as we go,” said Cherundolo, 42. “It’s just really well thought out and planned. And I’m going to do everything in my power to make it work.”

With the Lights, LAFC will provide coaches and players while club ownership in Las Vegas will run the business side. That will free Cherundolo to teach a style that mimics the pressing, ball-control game Bob Bradley plays with LAFC.

“That makes a lot of sense to everyone,” said Cherundolo, a defender in his playing days.