Photo Credit: Russell Lansford-Imagn Images
The Orlando Pride have announced the immediate termination of head coach Seb Hines, alongside goalkeeper coach Paul Crichton. Interim head coach responsibilities have been handed over to assistant coach Yolanda Thomas as the club prepares for the rest of the season.
Hines initially stepped in as interim head coach in June 2022, filling the role after Amanda Cromwell was placed on administrative leave. His impressive performance earned him a multi-year contract later that year, officially removing the interim designation in November 2022. Hines made history as the NWSL’s first Black head coach and celebrated a significant milestone by guiding the Pride to win the 2024 NWSL Shield. His remarkable coaching skills subsequently led the team to triumph in the 2024 NWSL Championship, completing a domestic double.
Expressing gratitude for Hines’ contributions, Caitlin Carducci, Orlando Pride’s Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager, highlighted his leadership and dedication. She acknowledged that while Hines played a critical role in the club’s history, a change in leadership aligns with the organization’s future goals. Carducci wished him success in his future endeavors.
Although the Pride did not capture any trophies following their successful 2024 season, they still experienced a commendable run, finishing fourth in the standings in 2025. They advanced to the semifinals before being ousted by the eventual champions, Gotham FC. Unfortunately, the current season has proven challenging, with the team languishing in 12th place with an 8-12-2 record, yet they remain just five points shy of a playoff spot.
During his tenure, Hines amassed a regular-season coaching record of 50 wins, 40 losses, and 21 draws. He reached the notable milestone of 50 career wins on August 23, making him the sixth NWSL coach to achieve this feat after leading the Pride to a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit.
Mark Wilf, Owner and Chairman of Orlando Pride, praised Hines for leaving a strong legacy with the club. He noted Hines’ relentless commitment to both players and staff and recognized that he helped foster a culture that elevated the Pride’s ambitions. Wilf expressed his thanks for Hines’ significant contributions and extended best wishes for him and his family as they move on.
Yolanda Thomas, who steps in as interim head coach, has been with the Pride since the 2023 season. Simultaneously, she has served as head coach of the U-23 U.S. women’s youth national team during two camps in 2025. With prior coaching experience at Tulsa Soccer Club and Fortuna Tulsa in the Women’s Premier Soccer League, Thomas led the latter to be recognized as Franchise of the Year in both 2019 and 2021, earning accolades as the 2019 WPSL Red River Conference Coach of the Year.
