Meet Coach Lorne Donaldson: Leading the Chicago Red Stars Redemption

The Chicago Red Stars have had a bumpy few years. From the firing of head coach Rory Dames amid abuse allegations to the search for new ownership and a slew of player departures, it hasn’t been easy. But 2024 seems like the year when the Red Stars rise from the ashes. Notably with the leadership of Lorne Donaldson, their new head coach, who was announced earlier this month. His arrival signaled not just a change in leadership but a transformative shift in the team’s ethos. Donaldson brings a wealth of experience honed through years of dedicated coaching across various platforms.

World Cup Experience

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Donaldson began as an assistant coach to the Jamaican women’s national team, the Reggae Girlz, in 2019. In 2022, he was named head coach and led the Reggae Girlz to their second World Cup qualification. This was a record feat for the nation, as their men’s side hasn’t done the same.

Under Donaldson, Jamaica surpassed expectations and reached the Round of 16. The team achieved a record-breaking performance that resonated far beyond the tournament’s conclusion. 

Coaching Elite Youth Soccer

Before working with the Jamaican national team, Donaldson worked with one of the most elite youth soccer clubs in the United States, Real Colorado. At the youth club level, he coached and helped develop a handful of talented players who are in the professional ranks today, including Janine Beckie and Sophia Smith of the Portland Thorns, Jaelin Howell of Racing Louisville, and Mallory Swanson and Ally Schlegel, who both play for the Chicago Red Stars.

As the Chicago Red Stars navigate a new era under the ownership of Laura Ricketts and Head Coach Lorne Donaldson, there’s a sense of optimism and determination. “Lorne has a proven track record as a winning coach and an advocate for his athletes. We believe he has the experience and leadership skills to elevate our talented group of players,” said Laura Ricketts, Red Stars Executive Chairperson. This Red Stars team has fought hard year in and year out, and it seems like they are finally on the right path. 

“I’m excited to work with this talented team that includes some of the NWSL’s best players to turn the Chicago Red Stars into a championship club both on and off the pitch,” said Donaldson about his appointment as the head coach.

Featured image via Getty Images

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