Casey Stoney and the Success of the San Diego Wave
There is a huge Wave coming out of San Diego, and it is thanks in large part to one woman, Casey Stoney. The San Diego Wave is currently in first place during their very first year in the league. Given the fact that their entire line-up was a big question mark until just a few months before their inaugural kick-off, their showing has been unprecedented. And for that, we are shining a huge spotlight on team manager Casey Stoney.
Playing
Before turning to the managerial side of the sport, Stoney had quite the on-field career. Stoney served on the defensive line for club teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool, as well as both the England and Great Britain National Teams.
With over 100 appearances for England, Stoney was named team captain for England as well as Team Great Britain in the 2012 Olympics. A proven leader, Stoney retired from play in 2018 and took on her first coaching job only four months later.
Coaching Career
In June of 2018, she was named head coach for Manchester United Women during their first season. Under Stoney, Manchester United Women had an absolutely brilliant sophomore year.
In 2019 Manchester United Women were promoted in FA Women’s Super League, won the FA Women’s Championship, and were named FA Women’s Championship Club of the Year. Though they have yet to win the League Cup, Stoney’s Manchester United Women have never finished lower than fourth.
Success with San Diego
Stoney has an incredible eye for strategy and knows which moves and choices will pay off in the long run. Her line-up for the Wave was carefully curated, with a perfect blend of veterans and new blood.
Stoney does not shy away from working with greener players and investing in their future. Players like forward Kelsey Turnbow and defender Naomi Grima have received that special Stoney attention, and it paid off—for the players, team, and coach—almost immediately.
The magic of Stoney’s midfield is undeniable and hard fought. After transfers and trades, Stoney has found the recipe for success with Emily van Egmond, Sofia Jakobsson, and Taylor Kornieck.
Stoney is a master strategist, completely capable of getting the best performance out of her players at every turn. It’s evident that Stoney doesn’t need a season or two to warm up. She’s ready to win right off the bat. She is a proven winner on the pitch and on the sidelines, and we can’t wait to see how the rest of the season turns out for Stoney and the Wave.
Featured image via Getty Images
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