AFC Ann Arbor has hired Eric Rudland to be the Head Coach and Sporting Director of the Mighty Oak.

Rudland joins Ann Arbor after two seasons with Lansing United of the NPSL. In his first year with LanU, he led the club to a 10-3-4 record and a Midwest Region championship.

Rudland, having coached in the US and UK, brings a great deal of experience with him and is thrilled to take the helm for the Mighty Oak.

“First & foremost I want to thank Jeremy Sampson & Lansing United for the opportunity to manage a team in the NPSL. I wouldn’t be where I am today professionally if it weren’t for that opportunity,” said Rudland.

Co-owner and player, Knox Cameron led the coaching search efforts for AFC Ann Arbor and couldn’t be more excited about the new direction for the club.

“Eric is very knowledgeable, a proven leader and has great experience in building championship teams. He’s an excellent recruiter and developer of talent- the ownership group is excited about the product that will be on display for our fans,” said Cameron.

As this new chapter unfolds for both AFC Ann Arbor and new Head Coach Eric Rudland, he won’t be wasting any time to settle into his new role.

“I’d also like to thank the AFCAA ownership group for offering me the opportunity to be a part of a growing and passionate organization who are strategically positioning themselves for success both on and off the pitch. The transition to AFCAA is exciting for a number of reasons. Ann Arbor is the community that my family and I live in and we are looking forward to giving back to the local soccer scene & the city of Ann Arbor. The AFC ownership group is very committed to growing a high level club and has the resources & intellectual capital to do so. Their commitment to invest in the football side of the organization is attractive & will position the club for future success on the pitch.”

He added, “In the coming weeks, I’m looking forward to connecting with returning & prospective players and initiating dialogue with the supporters in an effort to build towards the club’s second season.”

AFC Ann Arbor recently completed the inaugural season competing in the Great Lakes Premier League finishing in third place.