BYU Press Release - www.byusoccer.com

Thursday, October 29, 2009

PROVO, UTAH – The BYU men's soccer staff will add a familiar but new member to their coaching staff next season. Former Cougar Goalkeeper, Brandon Gilliam will become an assistant coach, working with the goalkeeper's.

“Brandon did a great job as a volunteer coach, last year," said head coach, Chris Watkins. "He is a very accomplished player and has a real passion for the game and our program."

"It means opportunity," said Brandon Gilliam. "It's a chance to develop myself for future positions and more importantly develop players for the future. Being at BYU is a different level of training because we are not looking to create just amazing athletes but leaders who one day might be able to be of great good in this world."

Gilliam played as a freshman in 2002, served an LDS mission to Philadelphia, then returned to play at BYU from 2005-2008. He trained the goalkeeper's last year for a few hours each week for a class but now will serve as an official staff member. He graduated from BYU in August 2009 in recreation management youth leadership.

During his career at BYU he finished in the top two in goals against average as well as top five in save percentage in the PDL his final two seasons. He also trained, upon request with Real Salt Lake numerous times. As a club player in the Dallas Fort Worth area he gained honors in club, the Olympic Development Program, and high school play.

At 18 he played in the Dallas Cup, which is one of the top international youth tournaments in the world. He married Nicole Urry on December 27, 2008. She currently plays on the BYU women's soccer team. Brandon's brother, Morgan, also played on the BYU men's soccer team.