Washington Spirit part ways with head coach Mark Parsons
- Head coach Mark Parsons departs following the team's inability to qualify for the playoffs
- The Spirit concluded the 2023 NWSL campaign in eight place with 30 points in 22 games and a 7W-9D-6L record
- It was Parsons' second stint with the team
The Washington Spirit parted ways with head coach Mark Parsons following the team's inability to qualify for the NWSL playoffs.
The D.C. team concluded the 2023 NWSL campaign in eighth place with 30 points from 22 games and a 7W-9D-6L record, narrowly missing out on a top-six slot and now choosing to cut ties with their coach.
"We are grateful for Mark's contributions in the 2023 season. He helped lay a strong foundation and set us on a path to excellence. We wish him all the best in the future," Spirit president of soccer operations Mark Krikorian said in a news release.
Parsons first led the Spirit from 2013 to 2015 before returning ahead of the 2023 campaign. During his time away, he saw stints with the Portland Thorns, winning the NWSL Shield in 2016 and Championship in 2017, and the Netherlands women's national team, which ended after a disappointing Euro 2022 campaign.
"It has been a privilege to be back in Washington D.C. and the NWSL this past year. I am proud of the work the players and the staff have put in this season, and I know the Spirit is well-positioned for success moving forward given the foundation that has been built," Parsons said in a news release.
"While I am disappointed to not be returning to the Spirit in 2024, I wish Michele and everyone at the club my gratitude and best wishes."
The team must now begin the search for a replacement ahead of the 2024 NWSL season.