February 5, 2025...York United FC announce Silviu Butnaru as Techical Director of York United Academy (from York United FC website)

York United FC announce Silviu Butnaru as Technical Director of York United Academy. Silviu will also take the reigns as head coach of the club’s League1 Ontario side.

SILVER SURFER

York United FC is excited to announce Silviu Butnaru as the Technical Director for York United Academy. This comes after Butnara was appointed Director of Scouting & Development in July 2024.

Butnaru will work closely with York United FC's Sporting Director Jorge Villalpando to identify and develop local players, strengthening the organization's commitment to identifying more Canadian talent and affording them the opportunities to succeed at the highest level.

Silviu will also be on the sidelines for the York Academy’s inaugural season in League1 Ontario as head coach of the squad, alongside his assistants who will be announced in the coming days.

The goal is to give opportunities to young players in our area and in Canada,” said Silviu Butnaru, Technical Director, York United Academy. “All we want to do is give these young players — 16, 17, 18 year olds — the chance to play at the highest level. We’re trying to do everything we can to set up the platform to give young players a jumping off point. Now it's all about them to come in and take it.”

An accomplished athlete with the Canadian Paralympic Team, Butnaru boasts more than 20 years of international experience as a coach, educator and mentor in soccer. His vast background in the development of high performance players has, and will continue to be, of significant value to York’s academy players, as well as the long-term success of the senior team.

A native of Romania, Butnaru graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Health and Physical Education from the University of Bucharest and began his coaching journey not long afterwards.

He has earned his UEFA 'A' Licence through the Football Association of Ireland and has worked in a litany of educational roles in the Greater Toronto Area. Boasting a longtime association with Ontario Soccer, he has served as General Manager/Technical Director with Rosedale Moore Park Association and has also spent time with Anderson College as Director of Education. Most recently, Butnaru was General Manager of Crusaders Rugby Club in Oakville, ON.

For any inquiries regarding the York United Academy or L1 side please contact Silviu at silviu@yorkunitedfc.ca

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