Thomas becomes NWSL’s first Black woman head coach

The Orlando Pride have named Yolanda Thomas their permanent head coach, making her the first Black woman appointed permanently to lead a team in NWSL history. Thomas, who joined the club as an assistant in 2023 and took over as interim coach after Seb Hines’s departure, helped Orlando win the 2024 NWSL Shield and championship. Club leaders cited her leadership, tactical expertise and familiarity with the organization, while Thomas said she was eager to build on the team’s foundation. She has also coached U.S. women’s Under-23 national team camps, and said she hopes her appointment inspires young people who have not seen someone like themselves in a high-level leadership role.