Anschutz Entertainment Group announced today that current President and General Manager of the MetroStars Nick Sakiewicz will be promoted to President, AEG Soccer New York/New Jersey.

With the promotion, Sakiewicz will now oversee all aspects of the Harrison Stadium project, including -- but not limited to -- construction, sales of assets, sponsorships, and commercial rights. He will also manage the MetroStars Training Center, AEG's Nokia Theatre and all other AEG developments in New York.

"I am looking forward to this new opportunity," said Sakiewicz. "It not only puts me in a position to help the Metros achieve greater success, but also to help AEG affirm itself in the New York marketplace -- as it has in Los Angeles -- as a leader in sports, entertainment and facilities development."

Anschutz Entertainment Group announced today that Alexi Lalas will be named the new President and General Manager of the MetroStars. Lalas fills the void left by Nick Sakiewicz, who was promoted to President, AEG Soccer New York/New Jersey.

"It has become apparent to us that in order to maximize the soccer opportunities in the New York/New Jersey market we need to create the same commitment and passion for the MetroStars as we have in Los Angeles," said AEG's President and CEO, Tim Leiweke. "It was our decision to utilize the strengths and resources of two of the best leaders in AEG Soccer. Nick has been instrumental in the deal that will create a new world-class football stadium for New York/New Jersey, and this project will require his full-time attention going forward. From naming rights and founding partners to suite sales and booking content, it is the highest priority of our company to make this project a success. In addition to the stadium project, Nick will handle our business relations with the state of New Jersey, the city of Harrison and Hudson County."

Alexi Lalas comes to the MetroStars from the San Jose Earthquakes, where he oversaw all business and soccer operations as the club's President and General Manager since January 27, 2004. During his first year as the team's President and General Manager in 2004, the Quakes enjoyed a 24 percent boost in overall attendance and a 70 percent increase in group ticket sales from the 2003 season. This season, he built on the significant progress he made in '04 and continued to establish relationships with key members of the San Jose political, business and public communities.

"It is a privilege to be given the opportunity to guide a club that I feel has the potential, on and off the field, to achieve worldwide recognition," said Lalas. "I look forward to helping the MetroStars become the first SuperClub to emerge out of MLS. And make no mistake; the race is on for that distinction. Whether it's championships, attendance, corporate relationships, stadium projects or simply brand awareness, the MetroStars need to set the standard and be a dominant force, in this league and in the world."