Orlando Pride head coach Seb Hines, front, watches from the sideline during an NWSL soccer match against the Chicago Red Stars, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
SOURCE: Phelan M. Ebenhack
Orlando Pride sacks head coach Seb Hines, citing ‘time for leadership change’
Seb Hines’ tenure with the Orlando Pride has come to an end after leading the club to a historic NWSL Shield and championship double in 2024.
The Pride announced Monday that they parted ways with the 2024 NWSL Coach of the Year.
“We want to express our gratitude to Seb for the dedication, leadership and professionalism he brought to the club during his time with us,” Orlando Pride Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Caitlin Carducci said. “He will always have a special place in our history for helping lead the Pride to levels it had never reached before. However, as we look toward the club’s long-term vision and future objectives, we believe that this is the appropriate time for a leadership change. We are grateful for all that Seb has contributed and wish him nothing but success in the next chapter of his career.”
Assistant coach Yolanda Thomas was named interim head coach following Hines’ departure.
Goalkeeper coach Paul Crichton also departed the club, the team announced.
The coaching changes come after the Pride lost 2-1 to the Utah Royals at Inter&Co Stadium over the weekend.
The 2026 season has been a difficult one for the Pride. Orlando currently sits 12th in the standings, five points behind the final playoff spot with eight games remaining in the regular season.
The Pride are 5-8 over their last 13 games.
Hines was in the final year of his contract, which included a club option for 2027.
“Seb leaves an undeniable legacy with the Pride,” Orlando Pride owner and Chairman Mark Wilf said. “His commitment to our players, his staff and this club helped deliver some of the most important moments in our history. Beyond the results, he helped establish a culture that elevated expectations for what this organization could achieve. We are thankful for everything Seb has contributed and wish him and his family the very best moving forward.”
The Pride return to action Sunday, Sept. 6, against the Houston Dash.