The Kansas City Current has named Matt Potter as its new head coach.
Potter is a former U.S. Women’s National Team assistant coach and U-23 USWNT head coach.
“As we continue to assemble the best staff in professional soccer, Matt is an integral piece as head coach,” said Angie Long, co-owner of the Current. “He has experience working with the best players in the United States and has a fantastic reputation in the global soccer world. We couldn’t be more excited to bring Matt to the Kansas City Current.”
“His competitive nature, love of attacking soccer, and positive energy fits perfectly in our culture,” Chris Long, co-owner, said. “He brings to us invaluable technical knowledge and player development skills.”
With the 2022 preseason set to begin on Feb. 1, Potter will assume his new position with the Current immediately, according to the announcement.
“I’m grateful to Angie and Chris Long and Brittany Matthews for the opportunity to take the club forward as its head coach,” Potter said. “The ambition of the ownership, the quality of the people within the organization, and the energy surrounding the Current within the city and fan base is evident.”
Potter began his NCAA Division I career with Washington State in 2003, a program that had only seen three NCAA tournament appearances in its history. In nine seasons following Potter’s arrival, he led the Cougars to a school record 88 wins and three NCAA Tournament appearances.
In 2012, Potter took the reins of the University of Oklahoma program. He led the Sooners to two NCAA tournament appearances and three double-digit win seasons.
A native of Mere, England, Potter spent his teenage years playing the central midfield for Watford FC before attending the West London College of Brunel University, where he led his team to the National British College title. Potter holds a USSF Pro License, USSF Talent Scout License, USSF A License and United Soccer Coaches Premier License.
“There is a clear vision for the Kansas City Current, both on and off the field,” Potter said. “It’s a vision that reflects the city, its people, and sports teams with great sporting traditions built on energizing a community by aiming high and unmatched work ethic. These attributes align with my own ambition and values. I look forward to the challenge of competing in one of the premier women’s soccer leagues, with players that share that philosophy. The Current is truly on the move, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Another personnel move made recently by the Current was to acquire the Orlando Pride’s natural second round draft pick in the 2023 draft, trading forward Darian Jenkins to the Pride. The Current will receive $75,000 in allocation money.
The Current also recently added Lynn Williams, a U.S. Women’s National Team forward and 2016 NWSL MVP. Kansas City also receives North Carolina’s natural second round and natural fourth round picks in the 2023 draft.
The North Carolina Courage will receive $200,000 in allocation funds from the Current, along with the natural first round pick in the 2023 NWSL draft and goalkeeper Katelyn Rowland.