HERRIMAN, Utah (ABC4) — In a move that was surprising to many, Utah Royals FC announced Sunday morning that they have fired head coach Amy Rodriguez.
Goalkeeper coach Maryse Bard-Martel has also been relieved of her duties. The team has a record of 2 wins, 11 losses, and 2 draws, putting them at last place in the league.
Michelle Hyncik, the team’s president, will “begin transitioning to a new role,” according to the football club. Sporting director Kelly Cousins retains her role and assistant coach Jimmy Coenraets will take over as interim head coach.
Utah Royals FC played to a scoreless draw Saturday night, though many fans claim it was the best the team has played all season. The previous game was a relentless 6-0 defeat against the Orlando Pride.
Fans are questioning the timing of the firing for the first-year head coach, just halfway into the season, and after arguably their best performance all year.
The first game under interim head coach Jimmy Coenraets will be next Sunday, July 7, at 4 p.m., against the Seattle Reign. That game can be found on NWSL plus or KMYU.
