Vancouver Whitecaps FC are pleased to announce the hiring of Chris Franks as head therapist for the Residency program.
Franks previously worked for Whitecaps FC as team physiotherapist from 2007 to 2009. A graduate of the University of British Columbia, Franks brings a wealth of physiotherapy experience to the Residency program, having a close working relationship with Whitecaps FC’s Major League Soccer physiotherapist consultant Rick Celebrini that goes back to their days as teammates with Vancouver 86ers. Franks and his staff will work together with the club’s MLS sports science staff to deliver one of the most comprehensive overall club physiotherapy programs in North America.
“We’re thrilled to have Chris come on board as head therapist for our Residency program,” said Dan Lenarduzzi, Whitecaps FC director of soccer development. “Whitecaps FC Residency is becoming a truly prestigious development program and the innovative work that Chris will be able to achieve in conjunction with Rick supports that ambition.”
A former Whitecaps FC defender/midfielder, Franks scored 11 goals and added 10 assists in 200 matches from 1994 to 2005. Internationally, the Richmond, BC, product played for Canada at the U-20 and U-23 levels, while making one appearance for the senior national team against Macedonia on May 18, 1998.
“I’m very excited to return to my hometown club,” said Franks. “I greatly enjoyed my past time playing and working for Whitecaps FC, and I look forward to helping the club’s Residency program continue to grow into one of the finest in North America.”
Supporting Franks will be Jon MacGregor, who will serve as athletic therapist for the U-18 and U-16 teams, as well as Kevin Phillips, athletic therapist for the U-14 group. Jon Poli will work as the program’s strength and conditioning coach.
