Eddie Speed, the son of the late Welsh football icon Gary Speed, is preparing to embark on a coaching career, continuing the family's legacy in the sport. The announcement comes nearly 15 years after his father's tragic death in November 2011 at the age of 42.
From Player to Coach
Eddie, now 29, has been playing in the United States for several years after earning a college scholarship. He currently plays for FC Motown in the National Premier Soccer League, having previously represented clubs such as Lansdowne Yonkers FC, Long Island Rough Riders, Des Moines Menace, and NY Empire FC. However, he is now ready to transition into coaching.
Former Wales midfielder and Wales Under-21s manager Matt Jones shared a photo on X of himself with Eddie at a World Cup match in the US, revealing the next step. "Continuing the 'Speed Legacy'," Jones wrote. "More than just a World Cup Game. Son of Gary, Eddie looking to venture into a coaching career and looking to start our highly regarded Welsh way Coach Education Pathway from the US. Mentorship the key to Growth & we will provide him the best."
First Coaching Role
Speed has already taken his first coaching role, being appointed head coach for North Easts Reds FC in Long Island. He will oversee the girls' under-16 and boys' under-12 teams, marking his initial foray into management.
He recently showcased his playing skills at the TST 7-a-side tournament in the US, turning out for Wrexham alongside former Premier League players Phil Jagielka, Adam Le Fondre, and Steven Fletcher. In previous years, he was part of former NFL punter Pat McAfee's team in the same event, catching the attention of ESPN.
Following a Legendary Father
Gary Speed was a revered figure in Welsh football, having enjoyed a stellar playing career with Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United, and Bolton Wanderers before becoming Wales manager in 2010. His son Eddie had already followed him into playing, earning a call-up to Wales under-16s in 2012. Now, he is set to continue the "Speed Legacy" in coaching, with support from the Welsh football community.
