The Washington Spirit on Monday rewarded interim coach Kris Ward for leading the team to its first championship in November.
Ward, who took over as the team’s interim coach in August, was promoted to be the Spirit’s permanent head coach. After he took over, the team went undefeated — aside from two forfeits due to violating COVID-19 protocols — and won the National Women’s Soccer League title.
“I’m very excited to be continuing as the head coach here in Washington,” said Ward in a team press release. “We’re building something special with this club and I’m honored to continue to be a part of it.”
Most impressive about Ward’s time as interim coach was the turmoil the team dealt with on the way to the championship. In addition to the two forfeits, the organization was involved in scandal following abuse and harassment accusations against the Spirit’s coach, Richie Burke, who was suspended and later ousted. The team was fined $25,000, and CEO Steve Baldwin resigned in October.
Ward will lead the defending-champion Spirit in the NWSL’s 10th season, which begins in March.
• Jacob Calvin Meyer can be reached at jmeyer@washingtontimes.com.
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