Yolanda Thomas makes history as first Black woman named permanent NWSL head coach

The Orlando Pride promoted Thomas from interim coach to a permanent leadership role, marking a historic milestone for Black women in professional soccer.

Yolanda Thomas has made history after being appointed head coach of the Orlando Pride, becoming the first Black woman to receive a permanent head coaching appointment in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

The club announced the multi-year agreement on Thursday, Nov. 12, elevating Thomas from her interim position to become the fifth permanent head coach in the franchise’s history. She initially took charge of the team in August following the departure of former coach Seb Hines, as reported by ESPN.

Yolanda Thomas had already broken barriers when she became the first Black woman to serve as an NWSL head coach on an interim basis. Her permanent appointment now marks another milestone for representation in professional women’s soccer.

Thomas joined Orlando as an assistant coach ahead of the 2023 season, working under Hines. During her time with the coaching staff, the Pride won the 2024 NWSL Shield and Championship, delivering the first major professional sports championship in Orlando’s history. After taking over as interim coach on Aug. 31, Yolanda Thomas guided the team through the remainder of the 2026 regular season. Orlando finished the campaign with an 11-16-3 record, missing the playoffs. Thomas recorded three wins, four losses and one draw during her eight matches in charge.

Club owner and chairman Mark Wilf praised Thomas’ leadership, experience and character, saying she had already played an important role in the organization’s success. Thomas described the appointment as a deeply meaningful professional and personal moment, expressing gratitude to the club’s leadership and confidence in the team’s potential.

Born in Uppsala, Sweden, Yolanda Thomas played professionally for seven years in the country’s top women’s division, the Damallsvenskan. Before turning to professional coaching, she had a distinguished collegiate career at Oklahoma State University, earning two Big 12 Player of the Year awards and three NSCAA All-American selections. She was also a finalist for the NCAA Woman of the Year award in 2009.

Her coaching career has included positions at Oklahoma State, the University of Tulsa and Rogers State University, where she served as head coach. She also held leadership roles with Tulsa Soccer Club and Fortuna Tulsa in the Women’s Premier Soccer League.