Orlando Pride announces Becky Burleigh as new interim head coach

Last month, Orlando Pride — the City Beautiful’s own professional women’s soccer team — announced Becky Burleigh as its new interim head coach. Burleigh, a Tarpon Springs native and former University of Florida head coach, is a four-time SEC Coach of the Year who has mentored many successful players, including the US Women’s National Team’s Abby Wambach and Heather Mitts.

Alan Kirkup, a former Manchester United player who worked alongside Burleigh in Gainesville for 15 years, was also named the Pride’s interim assistant coach.

The pair’s coaching debut occurred Saturday, July 31, resulting in a 1-1 tie with the North Carolina Courage.

– Aly Coleman, On 3 Public Relations