Becky Burleigh announced as Orlando Pride Interim Head Coach

The Orlando Pride have appointed Becky Burleigh as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2021 National Women’s Soccer League season following the departure of Marc Skinner. 

Burleigh joins the NWSL after 26 seasons as University of Florida head coach in Gainesville. With the Gators, Orlando’s newest interim head coach managed a record of 513-160-46, including an NCAA Championship, 14 SEC titles and appearances in the NCAA tournament in 22 of 26 seasons. 

“In addition to having a distinguished coaching career, Becky is among the most widely-respected leaders in our sport,” Orlando Pride Executive Vice President Amanda Duffy said.

 “Under Becky’s guidance, I’m confident that she will instil a new focus and confidence amongst the team, and strengthen the team’s existing foundation during this unique transition period for our Club. Our goals and expectations for this season remain unchanged, and we look forward to Becky shepherding this team through the remainder of this season to build on its early success.”

She is a four-time SEC Coach of the Year and 1998 NSCAA/adidas National Coach of the Year. During her collegiate coaching career, Burleigh led some of soccer’s biggest names, including former USWNT stars Abby Wambach and Heather Mitts, as well as current Pride players Erika Tymrak and Meggie Dougherty Howard. 

“I’m excited to become a member of the Orlando Pride franchise,” Burleigh said. “My hope is to create a seamless transition plan to build on the growth and strides that Marc and the team have made so far this season. Change, despite being difficult, always brings an opportunity for growth. I’m eager to work in partnership with the existing staff and players to make that happen.”