Toronto FC adds Doneil Henry and Jimmy Brennan to front office for 2026 season
Toronto FC has appointed former players Doneil Henry and Jimmy Brennan to its sporting department ahead of the 2026 MLS season. Henry will focus on player development, while Brennan will assist the Technical Director with strategy. Both aim to strengthen ties with the club’s history as TFC celebrates its 20th season.
Toronto FC announced Wednesday that former players Doneil Henry and Jimmy Brennan will join the club’s front office as part of its sporting department ahead of the 2026 Major League Soccer season.
Henry will serve as Special Advisor for Player Development and Engagement, while Brennan has been named Special Advisor to the Technical Director for Pathway and Strategy.
The appointments come as the club prepares to celebrate its 20th season in MLS and aims to strengthen its connection with former players who helped shape the organization’s history.
“TFC is much stronger with the knowledge, experience and passion that both Doneil and Jimmy bring,” Toronto FC general manager Jason Hernandez said in a statement. “Their understanding of the club’s identity will add tremendous value to our sporting department.”
Henry returns to support academy and player development
Henry, 32, returns to Toronto FC after a playing career that included two stints with the club.
In his new role, the Brampton, Ontario native will focus on player mentorship and technical development across Toronto FC Academy and Toronto FC II. He will also represent the club as an ambassador in community and fan engagement initiatives.
“From being a supporter to a player and now returning in this role, it’s an honour,” Henry said. “This club has given me everything, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help the next generation of players.”
Henry made history in 2010 as Toronto FC’s first-ever Homegrown signing after joining the club’s academy in 2008. Across two stints with the first team (2010–2014 and 2022), he recorded five goals and three assists in 101 appearances in all competitions.
He also helped the club win three consecutive Canadian Championship titles from 2010 to 2012.
Brennan takes role focused on pathway strategy
Brennan, 48, will work closely with Technical Director Sean Rubio to support the club’s player development pathway and long-term sporting strategy.
His responsibilities will include collaboration with Toronto FC Academy and Toronto FC II programs, as well as engagement with community partners and club initiatives.
“It’s great to be back with Toronto FC,” Brennan said. “This organization holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to contribute to the club’s future.”
A key figure in Toronto FC history
Brennan was Toronto FC’s first-ever player signing ahead of the club’s inaugural MLS season in 2007 and served as captain for four seasons.
During his time with the club from 2007 to 2010, the midfielder scored four goals and added five assists in 93 appearances across all competitions. He also helped the Reds win their first Canadian Championship in 2009.
After retiring, Brennan remained involved with the organization as assistant general manager, academy coach and first-team assistant coach before moving into youth soccer leadership roles.
He later returned to professional soccer in Canada as the first head coach of York9 FC — now known as Inter Toronto FC — in the Canadian Premier League.
Former national team players continue involvement in Canadian soccer
Both Henry and Brennan also represented Canada internationally during their playing careers.
Henry earned 44 caps for the Canadian men’s national team, while Brennan made 49 appearances and scored six goals, including participation in four CONCACAF Gold Cups and the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup.
Toronto FC said the two former players will now play a role in helping shape the club’s future both on and off the field as the organization enters a milestone season.
