In a shocking move, San Diego FC has parted ways with coach Casey Stoney.

The team is currently in 9th place with a record of 3-6-5. The Wave also have not won a match since May 8 and Stoney was under contract until 2027.

There were undoubtedly higher expectations for the club, but injuries have been a factor thus far into the season. The team also did not do much in the off-season to upgrade the roster.

In July 2021, the Wave hired Stoney as their first manager. The inaugural coach led the team to a third-place finish, which was unheard of for an expansion team. The Wave eventually lost in the playoffs, but the future looked bright for women’s soccer in San Diego.

Casey Stoney was awarded Coach of the Year for the team’s 2022 season.

Last year, the club finished first as the regular-season champs. A loss at home to Chicago was a horrendous way to end the season, but two straight playoff appearances were very exciting for the new franchise.

Wave FC announces the club has parted ways with Head Coach Casey Stoney.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Casey and wish her all the best for the future. pic.twitter.com/d3S7LonSut

— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) June 24, 2024

The Wave will now look for a new emotional leader.

Stoney was very highly respected in the sport. The fans will want answers to why the club decided to make this move halfway into a season. Sure, the current results are disappointing, but the club is still in its infancy, and growing pains were surely bound to happen.

Pat Buckle will serve as the team’s interim coach for the time being. We may also learn more about this situation and why the team parted ways with the only coach it has ever played under.

James Clark

James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.