Patricia Pérez Ferraro / SPP
Lorne Donaldson is the new head coach of the Chicago Red Stars, the team announced on Wednesday. Donaldson has extensive experience in developing U.S. youth talent and most recently served as head coach of Jamaica’s women’s national team, guiding Jamaica to the Round of 16 at the 2023 World Cup.
Donaldson made his name as a player and coach in the Denver area, where he played an influential role in developing young players who became U.S. national team stars, including Mallory Swanson and Sophia Smith. Swanson is an unrestricted free agent who has played for Chicago since 2021.
“Lorne has a proven track record as a winning coach and an advocate for his athletes,” new Red Stars majority owner and executive chairperson Laura Ricketts said. “We believe he has the experience and leadership skills to elevate our talented group of players. As the president of the elite youth club Real Colorado, Lorne also has deep ties to some of the finest U.S. players.”
Donaldson is the second full-time…
