Maintaining that he doesn't want to be pushed, Spirit owner Bill Stealey says it may be weeks or even a month before he selects a new coach.

The leading candidates at the moment are Spirit assistant coach Mike Stankovic and former Blast goalie Keith Van Eron. Stealey says he wants to expand the search after indicating last week that he hoped to fill the job this week.

"Mike and Keith have good attributes," Stealey said. "But we don't have enough candidates. I want to talk to some others, including a few college coaches."

Stealey and president and general manager Kenny Cooper, who stepped down as coach after the season, will attend the NPSL owners meetings Sunday through Tuesday in Canton, Ohio, and continue the search there.

"It's like getting married, and I want to make the right decision," Stealey said. "I want a strong, highly motivated coach willing to work 16-hour days. I'm willing to pay well. This is an opportunity for a man to really lead."

Stealey is in Florida on business. Cooper and Van Eron, who sometimes clashed during Van Eron's playing days, are scheduled to meet here today to determine if they can work in harmony.