Toronto FC: Justin Morrow excited for the next stage of his career

Justin Morrow is joining the Toronto FC front office as Technical Development Manager and should prove to be a success if his background is any indication.

Ever since Justin Morrow’s retirement at the conclusion of last season, Toronto FC fans have wondered what would come next for one of the most popular players in club history. Now they have their answer, after the Reds announced on Tuesday that he will join their front office as technical development manager.

As per TFC’s communications department, Morrow will use both sporting and strategic initiatives to assist players in their pathway development between the academy, Toronto FC II and first team. In addition, he will lead Equity Diversity and Inclusion efforts in collaboration with MLSE initiatives to inspire positive and enduring social change.

Sometimes, former players are given token roles as a way of thanking them for their loyalty and keeping them connected to the club. However, this particular appointment is about so much more than that, with Morrow having prepared for years for his post-playing career.

The 34-year-old is the executive director of Black Players for Change, which was awarded the 2020 MLS Humanitarian of the Year Award. He also holds a degree in finance and in 2019, he was invited to speak at a leadership panel at the Bank of Montreal.

Morrow is understandably excited about what lies ahead. As per TFC’s press release, he said:

"“I’m so grateful to be starting off the next chapter of my career with the club that has been my home for the past eight years. I hope to make this next chapter just as memorable as the last by helping Toronto FC win from outside the lines and I can’t wait to get started.”"

Morrow thoroughly deserves his new position and his accomplished playing career will earn him that much more respect when dealing with people. He has the second-most appearances in club history and was named to the MLS Best XI in 2017, when he helped the Reds win their first ever Supporters Shield and MLS Cup.

The Cleveland, Ohio native played 12 seasons in total in MLS, including eight with TFC. He spent his first four MLS seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes, who selected him 28th overall in the 2010 MLS SuperDraft.

TFC president Bill Manning was full of praise for Morrow on Tuesday. As per TFC’s press release, Manning said:

"“We are so pleased Justin will be joining us as he enters the next phase of his career. Justin has been a leader on and off the field during his MLS career and he will help the club tremendously with our homegrown pro player pathway. The future is bright for Justin.”"

No doubt TFC fans everywhere will be wishing Morrow the best of success. And if his playing career is anything to go by, the future really is bright for him.

Where does Morrow rank for you on the list of all-time players for Toronto FC?  Is there any particular moment in his playing career which stands out for you? Let us know in the comments section below.