Brendan Burke was named Northeastern men's soccer associate head coach in 2014, and begins his second season with the program in 2015. Burke came to Huntington Avenue after spending six years with the Philadelphia Union (MLS) organization.
Burke spent three seasons as the first team assistant coach of the Union, beginning in January of 2011 as the youngest assistant coach in Major League Soccer. While in that role, he was responsible for the design and implementation of training plans, overseeing the relationship with USL affiliate Harrisburg City and match analysis. He was also tasked with interacting with top university programs in preparation of the annual MLS Superdraft, including the drafting of former Husky great Don Anding in 2013.
In addition to day-to-day responsibilities, Burke was also entrusted to oversee college scouting and scouting of future opponents. During his time with the Union, Burke coached more than 75 matches on the sidelines, highlighted by an appearance in the 2012 U.S. Open Cup Semifinals. The Union went on to post a 12-12-10 mark during the 2013 MLS season, narrowly missing the playoffs by three points. Burke was also on the sidelines for international friendlies against Real Madrid and Schalke.
Burke also assumed responsibility of the Union reserve team in January of 2011, and also served as the assistant academy director. In this role, he implemented the training schedule in conjunction with first team methods, managed all reserve team games, and broke down film. He was also tasked with becoming the face of the coaching staff, and conducted weekly chalk talk sessions with fans.
Prior to his appointment with Philadelphia, Burke took control of the franchise's PDL affiliate, Reading United, in January of 2008 where he went 71-18-19. In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Burke was the program's assistant general manager. During Burke's time with United, the program reached the final four on two occasions, and also earned the regular season national championship in 2009. Burke coached the likes of Matt Hedges (Current FC Dallas Captain), CJ Sapong (2011 MLS Rookie of the Year), Andrew Wenger (former MLS No. 1 Draft Pick), and Deshorn Brown (Jamaican Senior National Team forward and 2013 MLS Rookie of the Year runner-up).
Burke graduated from Boston College in 2005 with a degree in business. During his time in Chestnut Hill, he was a four-year member of the men's soccer team.
