Racing Louisville FC Announces Coach Bev Yanez’s Contract Extension
Racing Louisville FC has confirmed that head coach Bev Yanez will remain with the team through the 2026 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season after exercising her contract option, as announced on Wednesday. Yanez stands out in the league as one of only two women heading a full-time coaching role among the 14 teams this year, the other being Ella Masar of Chicago Stars FC, who is currently serving as interim head coach.
Yanez’s Commitment and Team Performance
In a statement expressing her thoughts on the extension, Yanez emphasized the importance of being part of an organization that appreciates her true self and acknowledges the relentless dedication shown by both players and staff.
This marks Yanez’s second year in the head coaching position, during which she has led Racing Louisville to an impressive record of 6 wins, 2 draws, and 5 losses, reflecting the team’s best start in its history after the first 13 games. The team is positioned seventh overall, with a total of 20 points, indicating that they are in playoff contention for the first time, aiming to reach the NWSL playoffs after finishing in ninth place and missing the postseason in their previous four seasons.
Leadership and Background
Having previously served as an assistant coach for Racing Louisville, Yanez transitioned into the head coach role following the 2023 season. General manager Caitlyn Flores Milby, who has risen through the ranks since starting as an intern at the club, praised Yanez for her collaborative spirit and the strong culture she has cultivated within the team. Milby expressed confidence that Yanez’s leadership is instrumental in the team’s current success and in their pursuit of making history with a playoff berth.
Before moving into coaching, Yanez had an illustrious playing career in multiple leagues including stints in the U.S., Finland, Japan, and Australia, retiring in 2020. Following her playing days, she quickly transitioned into coaching and further developed her qualifications, obtaining a U.S. Soccer B License through a program designed for former players and later earning her A-Senior License in 2023. At just 36, Yanez is the third youngest coach in the NWSL.
