Orlando Pride Head Coach Marc Skinner Steps Down

Mark Skinner (file photo)

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 23, 2021) — Marc Skinner has resigned as head coach of the Orlando Pride, effective immediately, to pursue a coaching opportunity outside of the National Women’s Soccer League. Additionally, assistant coach Carl Green will also depart the Club. Green will coach the Pride on Saturday, July 24 against OL Reign, with the Club’s interim head coach announced in the near future. 

Named head coach of the Pride in January 2019, Skinner compiled a record of 9-23-11 across all competitions. The Englishman joined the Pride after two seasons managing Women’s Super League side Birmingham City and, to start the 2021 regular season, guided Orlando to a seven-game unbeaten run, the best start in the Club’s history. 

“I have tremendous gratitude and appreciation for the vision Marc and Carl brought to the Orlando Pride and I thank them for their commitment to the Club and the players during their time in Orlando,” Orlando Pride EVP Amanda Duffy said. “Under Marc’s guidance, the Pride have become a better team and a better organization, with a foundation in place for the continuation of a winning culture. I wish both of them much success in their next opportunity.”

“I am immensely proud to have been the head coach of Orlando Pride. I want to thank the players, staff and Club for all of their efforts in creating a culture worthy of this city and state. To the fans, I thank you for being patient whilst we grew together. You will continue to drive this team to achieve the heights that you all deserve,” Skinner said. “I have no doubt that this club will go from strength to strength with the new ownership in place and the values that the team have worked hard to develop. Although I will be watching from afar, the iconic purple team will always remain close to my heart. For the final time, #VamosOrlando.”

Led by Duffy, a thorough and extensive search for the Pride’s next head coach is underway. Assistant Coach Seb Hines and Goalkeeper Coach Lloyd Yaxley will remain on the Pride technical staff. 

COURTESY ORLANDO PRIDE COMMUNICATIONS