Thorns coach Rhian Wilkinson to resign

Portland Thorns FC today announced that head coach Rhian Wilkinson has notified the club that she will resign this month.

Late in the season, Wilkinson followed internal processes by self-reporting a matter to Club leadership, who then elevated it to the NWSL. A joint investigation was then conducted in partnership with the NWSLPA. The investigation concluded following the end of the 2022 season, at which point Wilkinson was cleared of any wrongdoing. 

“The Portland Thorns and Coach Wilkinson followed all League processes and policies and fully cooperated with this investigation,” said NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman. “The joint investigative team conducted a thorough investigation that resulted in a finding of no violation of League policies.”

“I would like to thank the Portland Thorns organization, the fans, the staff and most importantly the players for a remarkable year,” said Rhian Wilkinson. “During my time in Portland I have met some incredible people and been fortunate enough to coach some of the best players in the game.” 

Wilkinson was announced as Portland’s head coach ahead of the 2022 season on Nov. 29, 2021. In her lone season at the helm, Portland posted a record of 10-3-9 and won the club’s league-best third NWSL Championship.