Ex-Socker Clavijo Named to Coach Storm

Former Socker Fernando Clavijo began his day by being threatened with suspension by the St. Louis Storm. By Monday afternoon, he was the Storm’s new coach, replacing fired Don Popovic.

Clavijo was in New York on his way to Spain with the U.S. national team when he called his wife, who told him to return to St. Louis or face suspension.

Only after following her advice and landing back in St. Louis did Clavijo learn the real reason he was wanted back.

At 12-20 the Storm is in last place, but needs to make up only three games on Baltimore (15-17) for a playoff spot.

“I know how tense some of the guys have been playing,” Clavijo said. “They’re missing confidence from the coach and they are afraid to make mistakes. I’m not going to put any pressure on anyone. If you allow people to play with confidence, a lot of things happen.”

Clavijo said he will draw on his experience with the national team, which last year rallied for several victories after being taken over by Bora Milutinovic.

“Hopefully I can apply what I’ve learned from Bora,” Clavijo said.

Popovic is one of the MSL’s original coaches. He won four consecutive championships with the New York Arrows from 1979 to 1982. He leaves with a record of 278-170.