Fresh after the 2019 NWSL College, draft, the NC Courage, via their website, the North Carolina Courage announced today that they have signed head coach Paul Riley to a multi-year deal.
Impressive Stats
Riley is a two-time NWSL Coach of the Year and is coming off the 2018 season where he led the squad to become the first NWSL team to both win the NWSL shield and the NWSL Championship in the same season. On the way to the 2018 title, the team’s record was an astounding 17-6-1.
In 2018, the Courage broke several records including most wins in a season (17), most points (57), and most goals (53).
History with the Team
The Courage coach joined the organization during the team’s transition from being the Western New York Flash. In the first year with the Flash, the coach took his team to the 2016 NWSL Championship. They defeated the Washington Spirit 3-2 in penalty kicks. Then in the Courage’s first season, Riley led them to a 16-win season to clinch the 2017 NWSL Shield.
Curt Johnson on Riley
In the press release, Club President and GM Curt Johnson said that the organization is thrilled to have Riley continuing to lead the Courage.
“Paul is a consummate professional who has built a strong, winning culture within the Courage,” Johnson said.
“We look forward to having him lead the team with continued success for years to come.”
New Challenges in 2019
Riley said it is a tremendous honor to return to the club.
“Steve Malik is a visionary who completely understands the fantastic growth in the women’s game,” Riley said.
“Courage country is a special place. We have an amazing group of talented players who are willing to walk the wire in the clouds. They have given me the Courage to follow them. It’s an exhilarating time at the club and our fanbase is second to none. I’m looking forward to the challenge of a World Cup year and we have a motivated staff who will strain every sinew they have to service the team and make the club successful.”
Thanks 4 the trust & belief. Excited to see the group continue their phenomenal development. Outstanding group of players, caring, servicing staff, fabulous growing fan base and a club committed 2 raising the bar. COURAGE COUNTRY THANK YOU 4 THIS AMAZING OPPORTUNITY #believetown https://t.co/aQiy0ruxKW
— Paul Riley (@prileyfury4life) January 14, 2019
