Cone resigns as Thorns head coach for personal reasons

[DiamondThief]

Three months after hoisting the National Women's Soccer League trophy, Thorns head coach Cindy Parlow Cone announced this week that she has resigned in order to spend more time with her family. Cone's Thorns won the inaugural NWSL title in a 2-0 shutout of the West New York Flash on August 31. Under the former national women's team standout's guidance, the Thorns finished the regular season with a record of 11-6-5.

From the Thorns press release:

"It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to resign my position as head coach of Portland Thorns FC,” Cone said. “Coaching the Thorns has been one of the highlights of my career. However, due to the scheduling conflicts created by the job, I realized that despite being a great move for my career, it was less than ideal for the health of my marriage - which is the most important thing in my life."

Click here to read the entire press release.

Thorns owner Merritt Paulson thanked Cone for her service to the team via twitter:

"Cindy will be missed. One yr and one championship. But moreso great ambassador for team in Thorns historic first year. Thanks @cone_cindy"

Paulson also tweeted that he expected to name Cone's successor next week. Stay tuned to SC2C as we will bring that
announcement to you when it is made.

[Brian]

This is surprising. You always hate to lose a championship coach or star player. Paulson has a good head on his shoulders though so hopefully he's got a suitable successor.