The Chicago Red Stars have named Lorne Donaldson as the new head coach after an extensive three-month search.
Donaldson brings a wealth of coaching experience, having previously led Jamaica’s women’s national team during their historic run in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Under Donaldson’s leadership, Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz achieved a milestone by advancing to the round of 16 in the World Cup, becoming the first Caribbean nation to achieve this feat. His success on the international stage has now earned him the role of head coach for the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
A former player in Kingston
Donaldson, a former player in Kingston, Jamaica, had represented the Jamaican national team before pursuing his coaching career. He has been inducted into both the University Hall of Fame and the Colorado Youth Soccer Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport.
Throughout his coaching career, Donaldson has worked with various youth teams, from club level to the international stage. He served as Jamaica’s U17 head coach, a U20 and full national team assistant, before being appointed as the full-time head coach of the Reggae Girlz.
Karen Leetzow, the newly appointed club president of the Chicago Red Stars, expressed her confidence in Donaldson, stating, “Lorne is the right person to lead us next season. His extensive coaching experience, both at the youth and international levels, will be invaluable for our players and staff as we strive for excellence.”
Commitment to the growth of soccer
Donaldson’s commitment to the growth of soccer in the United States is evident in his co-founding of the Black Soccer Coaches Association of America. This initiative aims to promote a better understanding of American football culture among African and Caribbean players and coaches.
Speaking about his new role, Donaldson said, “I’m excited to work with this talented team, including some of the NWSL’s best players, to turn the Chicago Red Stars into a championship club both on and off the pitch. I look forward to partnering with Laura Ricketts and Karen Leetzow, who are committed to creating a culture of excellence and accountability.”
Donaldson’s influence at the youth club level is reflected in the success of elite players who have trained under his guidance at Real Colorado. Notable players such as Janine Beckie, Jaelin Howell, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson have played their youth soccer with Real Colorado and have gone on to make significant impacts in international and NWSL competitions.
The appointment of Lorne Donaldson as head coach marks an exciting new chapter for the Chicago Red Stars as they prepare for the 2024 NWSL Draft and the upcoming NWSL season.
