Adrian Heath, who had 2 spells with Stoke as a player, has become the first coach of Stoke's twinned club in the US, the Austin Aztex.
The Aztex are owned by Stoke director Phil Rawlins and will start in the United Soccer League in 2009. 'Inchy' has signed a 2-and-a-half year deal to enable him to scout for talent and then set up the club for its fledgling seasons.
It is hoped that the deal will enable young Stoke players to head to Texas to gain experience, and that exciting players from Austin will be able to come in the opposite direction.
The strong connections between the 2 clubs already in place through Phil Rawlins can only be strengthened through Heath's involvement, and it is to be hoped that Stoke can gain a real advantage from the relationship.