MetroStars general manager Nick Sakiewicz announced that Chris Brienza has joined the organization in the newly created role of vice president, media relations. Brienza, 35, will oversee the team’s efforts in reaching out to the sports and business media on both a local and national level. He spent most of the previous 11 years working within the National Basketball Association, serving as the NBA’s Vice President, Sports Media Relations from 1998 through February, 2000. Most recently, he worked as partner and managing director for the New York-based sports PR company 1450 Media. “We’re excited to have Chris join our organization,” said Sakiewicz. “His vast experience, along with his knowledge and passion for soccer, make him uniquely qualified to lead our media relations efforts.” A native of South Orange, NJ, Brienza played three seasons of varsity soccer at New York University, where he graduated in 1987 with a BA in journalism. He currently resides with his wife, Janet, in Hoboken, N.J.