[U.S. UNDER-18 NATIONAL TEAM] Mike Matkovich, who founded the Chicago Magic youth club and served as an assistant coach at Toronto FC and Chivas USA, has been named head coach of the U.S. under-18 boys national team.

Matkovich replaces Bob Jenkins, who left to take over the Richmond Strikers' program.

Matkovoch's vast experience also includes serving as an assistant coach of the NPSL's Chicago Power (1990-94) and head coach of the PDL's Chicago Fire Reserves (2002-06).

The U-18 program aids in the transition for younger players between the U-17 and U-20 teams.

Matkovich's first camp with the U-18s will be a 72-player mega camp at The Home Depot Center from Dec. 28-Jan. 5.