Here is a great article on the trend towards hiring technical directors, a growing trend in the MLS. The article presents some interesting insights into the problems and benefits of the position - some of it relevant to the youth game......

    Of course, a technical director's post isn't all scouting and signing first-team players. This person must have a vision concerning the reserve team and the burgeoning MLS youth components. A technical director will make important decisions on youth club structure, training, philosophy and coaching choices. Pick the wrong technical director -- someone who hires ill-suited cronies or neglects the community aspect -- and the club's youth component will soon be a mess.

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