Veteran collegiate and player development leader to oversee academy operations, player pathway strategy, and support sporting director search
Uniondale, NY – June 4, 2026 — The Island FC today announced the appointment of Gary Book as Managing Director, a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the club’s academy operations, player pathway development, and football administration as the organization continues preparations for its inaugural MLS NEXT Pro season in 2027.
In his role, Book will lead the strategic development of The Island FC’s academy structure, establish clear pathways from youth soccer to the professional game, and assist the club in the selection and onboarding of its inaugural Sporting Director.
A highly respected figure in the New York soccer community, Book joins The Island FC following six successful seasons as head coach of the men’s soccer program at Adelphi University, where he guided the Panthers to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, an NE10 Championship, seven consecutive winning seasons — an achievement which has not been accomplished at Adelphi since the late 1970’s — and the program’s first-ever No. 1 national ranking.
“Gary brings an extraordinary combination of leadership, experience, and credibility within the game,” said Travis Lamprecht, President of Business Operations for The Island FC. “His track record of developing players, building successful programs, and his deep roots within the Long Island soccer community make him the ideal person to help shape our football operations and player pathway from day one.”
Since arriving at Adelphi in 2018, Book compiled a record of sustained success, highlighted by a 17-win debut season, an NE10 Tournament Championship, multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, and recognition as NE10 Coach of the Year. His teams consistently competed among the top programs in Division II while producing all-conference performers and academic standouts.
Prior to Adelphi, Book spent more than two decades on Division I sidelines. He served for 13 seasons at Hofstra University as an assistant and associate head coach, helping lead the Pride to multiple Colonial Athletic Association championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Before Hofstra, he spent 13 seasons at St. John’s University, where he was part of the coaching staff that captured the 1996 NCAA National Championship and helped guide the Red Storm to numerous Big East titles, Sweet 16 appearances, and Final Fours.
Book’s connection to the game runs deep. His uncle, Tony Book, captained Manchester City during one of the club’s most successful eras, leading the club to First Division, FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup titles before later serving as manager. While carrying a family legacy rooted in the sport, Gary Book has built an accomplished career of his own spanning more than three decades in coaching, player development and football leadership across the collegiate and youth levels in the United States.
Beyond the collegiate game, Book has played an influential role in youth player development throughout the region, serving as Technical Director of the Long Island Junior Soccer League and Director of the Eastern New York Olympic Development Program. He has also worked extensively with the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, now known as United Soccer Coaches.
“I am excited to join The Island FC at such an important moment in the club’s history,” said Book. “The opportunity to help build a footballing identity, establish a meaningful pathway for players across Long Island, and contribute to the long-term success of this club is incredibly special. Long Island has a rich soccer tradition, and I’m looking forward to helping create opportunities for the next generation of players to pursue their dreams close to home.”
Book’s appointment represents another significant milestone as The Island FC continues building its leadership team ahead of the club’s 2027 launch in MLS NEXT Pro.
About The Island FC
The Island FC is an official MLS NEXT Pro club, committed to building a complete player pathway from youth development to the professional level. As part of its long-term vision, The Island FC will launch its MLS NEXT Pro team in 2027, creating a direct connection between grassroots development and the professional game.
