The Orlando Pride parted ways with head coach Seb Hines effective immediately and appointed assistant coach Yolanda Thomas as interim head coach, the club announced Aug. 31, 2026.
Caitlin Carducci, the Orlando Pride vice president of soccer operations and general manager, thanked Hines for his work with the National Women’s Soccer League club. “We want to express our gratitude to Seb for the dedication, leadership and professionalism he brought to the Club during his time with us,” Carducci said. “He will always have a special place in our history for helping lead the Pride to levels it had never reached before.”
Carducci said the change aligns with the club’s long-term direction. “However, as we look toward the Club’s long-term vision and future objectives, we believe that this is the appropriate time for a leadership change,” she said. “We are grateful for all that Seb has contributed and wish him nothing but success in the next chapter of his career.”
Yolanda Thomas takes over on an interim basis
Thomas joined the Orlando Pride as an assistant coach ahead of the 2023 season. She also served as head coach for the U-23 U.S. Women’s Youth National Team during two camps in 2025.
Before joining Orlando, Thomas coached Tulsa Soccer Club and Fortuna Tulsa of the Women’s Premier Soccer League. She led that organization to Franchise of the Year honors in 2019 and 2021 and earned 2019 WPSL Red River Conference Coach of the Year recognition.
Mark Wilf cites Seb Hines’ impact
Mark Wilf, the Orlando Pride owner and chairman, said Hines left a lasting mark on the club. “Seb leaves an undeniable legacy with the Pride,” Wilf said. “His commitment to our players, his staff and this club helped deliver some of the most important moments in our history.”
Wilf also credited Hines with helping establish a stronger culture around the organization. “Beyond the results, he helped establish a culture that elevated expectations for what this organization could achieve,” Wilf said. “We are thankful for everything Seb has contributed and wish him and his family the very best moving forward.”
Goalkeeper coach Paul Crichton is departing the Orlando Pride alongside Hines. Crichton joined the Orlando Pride coaching staff before the 2023 season.
Source: Original report