One Knox SC announced the signing of USL veteran forward Ilija Ilić, their first professional signing since promotion to USL League One. The 31 year old Serbian will also serve as assistant coach.
Ilić previously played for New Mexico United in the USL Championship League, where he had 22 appearances in 2021 and two appearances in 2022 before his release in July. Prior to this, he spent two seasons with Indy Eleven and four with Louisville City FC. His best year was in 2018 with Louisville City FC, where he made 28 appearances and scored 11 goals, plus one in the US Open Cup and two in the USL playoffs that year, when City won the title.
Ilić will also serve as assistant coach under head coach Mark McKeever. He previously played under McKeever at Young Harris College.
Ilić brings needed professional experience to the club, and in this setup it seems likely he will transition to full time assistant coach in the next year or two as the club continues to develop professionally.
Media Coverage
One Knoxville SC makes first professional signing (WVLT CBS 8)