Cary, NC (August 18, 2020)- The North Carolina Courage announced today that Head Coach Paul Riley has signed a multi-year coaching contract extension through 2022. Riley was named the NWSL Coach of the Year in 2018 and 2019 and has been head coach of the Courage since 2017.

“Ever since we started this special journey with the Courage, Paul Riley has been the perfect person for what we are building here in North Carolina,” North Carolina Football Club Owner Steve Malik said. “Paul brings a professionalism and intensity to improve every day to his leadership of our team. I look forward to continuing to work with Paul as we chase greatness on the field and keep growing the game here in the Triangle.” Riley has led the North Carolina Courage to three-consecutive NWSL Shields and two-consecutive NWSL Championships. He has coached in four-straight NWSL Championships, winning three of the four. Riley and the Courage also won the first-ever Women’s International Champions Cup in 2018. “Paul has been an anchor for the club having played a heavy hand in the culture and success of the team,” said NC Courage captain Abby Erceg. “His re-signing provides stability to the players, like me, and ensures individual development continues to flourish under his leadership. I look forward to being able to build on what we have achieved together in the coming seasons.” Riley has coached Erceg and teammates Abby Dahlkemper, Jaelene Daniels, Kristen Hamilton, Jessica McDonald, Katelyn Rowland, Meredith Speck, and Lynn Williams for five consecutive seasons. “We could not be more excited to bring Paul back as head coach of the Courage for many years to come,” said NC Courage and North Carolina FC President and General Manager Curt Johnson. “Paul loves coaching, developing players, studying the global game, his team, and his opponents. His enthusiasm and commitment to his job is on display every single day and is at the root of the winning culture within our club. His commitment to his craft and his passion for his players has resulted in recognition globally and is the winning combination that will continue to drive the Courage and our club forward on and off the field.” Before coaching in the NWSL, Riley coached in the WPS, WPSL, USISL, and collegiately for CW Post. His professional career in the United States included playing for the Long Island Rough Riders, Albany Capitals, New Jersey Eagles, Glen Cove, Hercules, and New York Atlas. He is the all-time assists leader for the Rough Riders.