VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC confirmed on Wednesday that the club’s head of sports medicine and science Dr. Rick Celebrini has accepted the position of director of sports medicine and performance with the National Basketball Association’s Golden State Warriors.
“Rick has been a tremendous asset to our club the past eight seasons and we are thankful to have had him on our team,” said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi. “Rick has done a first-class job in building a progressive system and culture in our sports medicine and science department. He will leave the club knowing we are in a great place with a number of talented individuals who will maintain the high standards that he has set. As he transitions to this new opportunity in the Bay Area, with the full support of our club, we wish Rick and his whole family all the very best.”
In July 2011, Celebrini returned to Whitecaps FC as a physiotherapy consultant and in February 2012 the Burnaby, BC native accepted the role of head of sports medicine and science.
“My connection with this club and city will forever have a special place for me and my family,” added Celebrini. “Having the opportunity to pursue my passion for sports medicine, therapy, and performance with this club from the first season in MLS, in my hometown and the club I played for, was a dream come true. I am better for the involvement I have had with this club. I am forever thankful to the owners, executives, coaches, staff, and players. I wish everyone involved with the ‘Caps all the very best.”
Celebrini’s professional soccer career included four seasons as a defender for his hometown club from 1992 to 1995, including the last two as captain, when the team was then known as the Vancouver 86ers.
