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Former Reggae Boy Shavar Thomas says he is honoured by last week’s announcement that Connecticut United Football Club (CT United FC) have appointed him the first-ever head coach for their inaugural MLS NEXT Pro season.
“This is an incredible honour,” said Thomas. “Connecticut is where my path in the US began, and now I have the privilege to help build something new here,” said Thomas.
The former Reggae Boy attended The Hotchkiss School in Lakeville, Connecticut and quickly emerged as one of the region’s top defensive prospects. He continued his rise at the University of Connecticut, starring for one of the nation’s most respected collegiate programmes.
In 2003, Thomas was selected 10th overall in the Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft, launching a professional career that included nearly 200 MLS appearances and multiple individual accolades, including club Defender of the Year honours and selection to the MLS All-Star pool.
According to the former defensive standout, the MLS NEXT Pro is only the beginning of his and the state’s ambitions.
“We’re going to create a disciplined, hard-working, fearless team that represents this state with pride. MLS NEXT Pro is just the start – we’re building toward something much bigger.”
Internationally, Thomas became a central figure for the Reggae Boyz, earning over 50 caps and captaining the country in major competitions. Renowned for his discipline, leadership, and calm presence under pressure, he established himself as one of the most respected defenders in the Caribbean.
As a coach, Thomas has also enjoyed success. He led Portmore United to the Jamaican Premier League title – earning widespread recognition and a berth in the Concacaf Champions League – and contributed to the development of Jamaica’s next generation through multiple national team roles. Most recently, he served on the coaching staff of FC Cincinnati 2, supporting the club’s defensive structure and contributing to one of MLS NEXT Pro’s most impressive competitive turnarounds.
Thomas is admired for his coaching philosophy built on athletic, high-energy football, rooted in disciplined defensive structure and intelligent transitions – an approach, the club says, fully aligns with its competitive identity.
“And, for people who know Shavar, none of this success is surprising,” said André Swanston, CEO of CT Sports Group.
“I’ve known him for nearly 30 years, and his work ethic has always been relentless. That mentality – how he carries himself, how he competes, how he leads – is exactly what we want embedded into CT United from day one.”
Denis Hamlett, who played a pivotal role in the coaching search, underscored the significance of the hire.
“Shavar has the rare combination of elite playing experience, tactical understanding, and leadership presence,” Hamlett said.
“He’s proven he can win, proven he can develop players, and proven he can lead. He is absolutely the right person to build CT United’s identity.”
English (US) ·