The NWSL played its first season in 2013, and after initial struggles in the new league, the Red Stars under Dames qualified for the playoffs in six straight regular seasons (2015-19, 2021) and reached the league final in 20. The bombshell article from the Washington Post casts a new light on the legacies of Dames and the Red Stars.ĭames, 48, took over the Red Stars in 2011 and led the team to its only trophy in 2012. We continually evaluate our team and front office environment, and given the dynamic change underway in the league, it is time to begin the next chapter of the Red Stars with a search for new leadership of the team.” The Red Stars said in the Sunday night announcement: “Under Rory’s leadership we have been a remarkably consistent and excellent club on the field. In announcing his resignation, the Red Stars quoted Dames, who also oversees elite youth soccer club Eclipse Select, as saying he was “refocusing my attention to my family and future endeavors.”

The timing of the announcement - combined with the fact the news never appeared on the team’s highly active social media accounts and no media availability was scheduled - drew questions considering Dames’ tenure and legacy, including leading the club to three straight finals. The Red Stars announced Dames’ departure at 11:54 p.m. A statement from the NWSLPA on Rory Dames: /ZxSm1QuF3x- NWSLPA November 23, 2021

Chicago red stars coach