In a significant move ahead of the 2025 NWSL season, Angel City Football Club has appointed Mark Parsons as their new Sporting Director. Parsons, who previously led the Portland Thorns to unparalleled success, will now oversee all soccer operations for the Los Angeles-based club.
A Proven Track Record
Mark Parsons brings an impressive resume to Angel City FC. During his tenure with the Portland Thorns from 2015 to 2021, he amassed an enviable collection of trophies:
- 2 NWSL Shields (2016, 2021)
- 1 NWSL Championship (2017)
- 3 Additional Trophies
Parsons’ ability to consistently lead his teams to titles makes him a valuable asset for any club. As the only coach to have won the NWSL Shield, Championship, and Challenge Cup, his pedigree is unmatched.
Elevated Expectations
Angel City FC is setting their sights high with the appointment of Parsons. Club president Julie Uhrman emphasized the importance of his hiring:
“Mark brings exceptional experience in the domestic and global game. As we enter 2025 with the opening of our state-of-the-art performance center, Mark will lead our sporting operations, driving our culture and championship ambitions.”
– Julie Uhrman, Angel City FC President
The combination of Parsons’ leadership and Angel City’s new facilities signals a clear intent to become a dominant force in the NWSL. After missing the playoffs in 2024, the club is betting on Parsons to right the ship and steer them to glory.
A Fresh Challenge
For Parsons, the move to Angel City represents an exciting new chapter. He expressed gratitude and eagerness to get started:
“It is an honor to become part of Angel City Football Club, a trailblazing and ambitious organization setting new standards in the game. I am grateful to Willow, Bob, and Julie for their trust and look forward to working closely with ownership and the exceptional leadership team to build on the solid foundation they’ve established.”
– Mark Parsons, Angel City FC Sporting Director
In his new role, Parsons will manage all aspects of soccer operations, including:
- Technical Staff Oversight
- Scouting & Analytics
- Sports Medicine
- Player Care
His holistic approach and attention to detail in these areas helped establish the Thorns as a perennial powerhouse. Angel City will look to replicate that model of sustainable success under his guidance.
The Road Ahead
Mark Parsons inherits an Angel City squad with immense potential but one that underachieved in 2024. To get the club on track, he will need to:
- Evaluate the Current Roster
- Identify Areas for Improvement
- Make Strategic Acquisitions
- Implement his Tactical Philosophy
If Parsons can successfully put his stamp on this team and get buy-in from the players, Angel City has the pieces to become a formidable side. The club’s ambitious owners will expect nothing less than a return to the postseason in 2025.
A Statement of Intent
Ultimately, the decision to bring in a sporting director of Mark Parsons’ caliber is a resounding statement from Angel City FC. It demonstrates an unwavering commitment to build a winning organization and cements their status as one of the league’s most ambitious clubs.
As Parsons settles into his new position, all eyes will be on Angel City to see if they can mount a serious challenge for NWSL silverware in 2025 and beyond. With one of the game’s brightest minds now at the helm, the possibilities are tantalizing for this bold, up-and-coming franchise.
