Having recently ended his three-year stint as US Under-17 National Team coach, John Hackworth has been named the new assistant to senior head coach Bob Bradley.

Working with America's youth team, Hackworth maintained their enviable and unique record of having qualified for every Under-17 World Cup so far, achieving respectable finishes each time. A tough act to follow, the name of his successor will be revealed in the coming weeks.

"Joining Bob Bradley's staff as that team gets focused on World Cup qualifying in 2008 is a great next step as a coach," said Hackworth. "I've known Bob for many years and we have a great connection in terms of how we see the game, both technically on the field and in the ways you can help prepare a team off the field. I'm greatly looking forward to being a part of his staff on the road to South Africa."

In addition to his responsibilities as Bradley's right hand man, Hackworth will take on a role as Development Academy Director, working with clubs to improve conditions for the development of elite players.

"The program provides the elite player with the proper environment for their development," an enthusiastic Hackworth explained. "In the past month, we have already identified a number of players for the National Team program and we expect that the opportunity for players to train more and play in a highly competitive environment will pay dividends in the future."

Meanwhile, Hackworth must help prepare the USMNT for its next match, against South Africa in Johannesburg on November 17th.