Twila Kilgore steps down from USWNT after leading through transition

Twila Kilgore was leaving the U.S. Women's National Team arguably at an apex in her career with the team, as she helped bridge over until the new hire could come in, maintaining the high bar set by her that preceded Emma Hayes. Her record stands at a very impressive 10-1-3.

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Following Vlatko Andonovski's departure shortly after the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Kilgore was named interim head coach for the fall of that year. Her job was far from an easy one: to keep an elite team, focused and competitive, while waiting for new permanent leadership. While at the helm, she led the team to two major tournament wins: the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup and the 2024 SheBelieves Cup.

But Kilgore's mandate was not limited to managing a talented team; she had to oversee a transitional period of the USWNT, particularly after the 2023 World Cup. She accepted the daunting task of keeping the morale and motivation of the team alive and getting the building blocks in place for Hayes' entry onto their road to winning the gold medal at the 2024 Olympics.

Decision to Leave and What's Next

When Emma Hayes came over to the USWNT, Kilgore decided it was time to resign herself and move on to greener pastures as far as her coaching career goes. In her release statement, she looked back on the last three years with the program, noting all the experiences and relationships she built.

Being part of this historic program, both as an assistant and interim head coach, has been an absolute privilege and incredibly enriching experience," said Kilgore via the announcement of her departure. She cited the fact that, especially during this transitional period, it was tough, but the on-field results mirrored the work of the team and coaching staff alike.

Her departure not only closes her chapter with the USWNT but also opens the door to new growth opportunities for her as a coach, whether in another club, a national team, or in development projects within women's soccer. Kilgore brings a wealth of knowledge to the position, having served as an assistant and head coach in the NWSL, adding US Soccer and UEFA coaching licenses, and a mentor with the SheChampions program to her resume. The next steps in her career will definitely be followed with much interest by those who support and follow women's soccer.

U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker praised the fact that Kilgore, in such a difficult transition, kept the team focused, well-prepared, laid a great relationship with players, and gave much attention to details in recent years.

"Her attention to the task and her positive relationships with players and staff were an integral part of our Olympic preparations, and we are very thankful for her contributions," Crocker said. He also praised Kilgore's strong work ethic, adding she will no doubt excel at her next stop as a head coach.

Emma Hayes herself, who joined as the USWNT head coach in May 2024, also rang similar compliments about Kilgore, citing her commitment and enthusiasm for the team as integral in the months leading up to her arrival. Hayes mentioned that soccer needs more like Kilgore, who would be role models to the next generation of female coaches. Whatever team Twila joins next, they'll be getting an excellent coach and an incredible person, said Hayes.