Seb Hines becomes first Black head coach to win NWSL trophy | OneFootball

Seb Hines has made history once again with Orlando Pride following their NWSL Shield triumph. The 36-year-old is the first Black head coach to win a trophy in NWSL history, as the Pride lifted their first ever piece of silverware.

Hines has not only led the team to their first trophy in just 23 unbeaten games, but also wrote himself into the record books. In the league’s 14 year span, Hines has made history twice. When he joined Orlando Pride ahead of the 2023 season, he became the first Black head coach in the NWSL. And now, he is the first to win a trophy.

It’s a history that aligns nicely with Hines’ home nation. The month of October marks Black History Month in England. It is a time to celebrate the history that has been brought to the country through Black people. Hines — originally from Wetherby in Leeds — alongside his assistant coach Giles Barnes, have made English Black History Stateside, writing themselves into the books.

Hines and his team have led the Pride to a 23 game unbeaten streak in the league, winning the Shield with just four games left to play. The side missed out on play-off places last season on goal difference alone, finishing seventh in the regular season. But this term, the Pride are looking to become the first invincible team in the league. They have won 17 games, drawn six and lost none so far.

Orlando Pride are the team to beat. The Shield marks the first ever NWSL trophy for the club since the side were formed in 2015. Unbeaten thus far in the regular season, and with the play-offs approaching, only time will tell if Seb Hines can do the double and reach even more groundbreaking milestones.

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