Neuman succeeds Calaycay as Vienna Vikings Head Coach

The Vienna Vikings will go into the upcoming American Football League Europe (AFLE) season with Jordan Neuman as their new Head Coach. The Viennese announced this on Friday.

Neuman follows in the footsteps of his American compatriot and long-serving Vikings Head Coach Chris Calaycay, who will fill the new position of Sporting Director for the Vikings. The duo will continue to lead the sporting fortunes of the reigning AFLE champions together with General Manager Max Paatz.

"The circle closes"

"In 2011, the Vikings gave me my first opportunity to coach professionally. It feels right that the circle is now closing, and I get to lead the franchise as the new Head Coach," said Neumann.

He had already served as Offensive Coordinator and "Assistant Head Coach" for the Vikings in the past season. Calaycay had been Head Coach for the Viennese since 2007, and was thus responsible for numerous titles.

"I am very proud to hand over this position to Jordan. I have full confidence in him and am convinced that he is the right person to make the transition smooth," said the 50-year-old Calaycay.

"Important part of the vision"

In the future, he will be responsible for sporting strategy, squad planning, and coach and player development in an overarching role. This new structure is intended to separate the tasks between the daily duties of a Head Coach and the long-term development of the organization, according to the press statement.

"My vision has always been to make smart decisions early and set new standards in European football. The creation of the Sporting Director role is an important part of this vision and will play a central role in the Vikings organization," quoted Vikings owner Robin Lumsden.