Real Salt Lake hires Kurt Schmid as technical director

HERRIMAN, Utah – Real Salt Lake announced today that the Club has hired Kurt Schmid as Technical Director. Schmid’s previous experience includes stints with Seattle Sounders FC, the LA Galaxy and Inter Miami CF.

“I have always taken an interest in how Real Salt Lake approaches youth development to enhance what has long been a successfully run organization,” Schmid said. “I am eager for the opportunity to be a part of the Club’s continued growth in MLS and look forward to working with the staff to bring RSL back to prominence.”

In his role as Technical Director, one of Schmid’s primary responsibilities will be leading the scouting department in player identification and recruiting strategies. He will also develop and supervise the implementation of player progression plans within the organization, developing the Club’s soccer curriculum and managing player movement between Real Salt Lake, the USL Championship title-holding Real Monarchs and the club’s Academy system.

"I think the club has a fantastic infrastructure." pic.twitter.com/nshgCgSpmi

— Real Salt Lake (@realsaltlake) February 11, 2021

Schmid, 38, began his MLS career with Seattle in 2009, serving as an assistant coach and scout in the club’s inaugural season. He was later promoted to Head Scout, then Director of Player Personnel as the Sounders won the 2016 MLS Cup, the 2014 Supporters’ Shield and four U.S. Open Cup titles.

In 2017, he moved to the Galaxy, acting as Director of Player Personnel and Scouting. Finally, he moved to Inter Miami, where he was hired as Technical Director prior to the club’s inaugural season.

“We are thrilled to add somebody with Kurt’s experience and expertise to our staff,” RSL General Manager Elliot Fall said. “He brings a wealth of knowledge of the game and the league and will complement our operation from top-to-bottom.  His passion for player development and the sport in our country will be an invaluable asset for Real Salt Lake for years to come.”

Prior to working in Major League Soccer, Schmid worked as an assistant coach in college soccer at UC Irvine and Saint Mary’s College. During his playing days, he was a defender at Wake Forest and UCLA.