In partnership with Birmingham United Soccer Association and Alabama FC, Legion announced coaches for the upcoming USL W League pre-professional team
BIRMINGHAM, AL (March 3, 2023) – Birmingham Legion FC announced today the selection of coaching staff for their inaugural USL W League women’s team, naming Nathan Archard as Head Coach and Janet Parks as Assistant Coach.
Partnering with BUSA/AFC, Legion’s USL W League team will provide a new pathway in women’s soccer for local, elite female players between college and professional soccer.
Selecting coaches with a passion for growth and the skills to develop elite players is pivotal to the mission of Legion’s W League team. Nathan and Janet have both served as coaches of high-level women’s soccer and both currently work with BUSA/AFC teams.
Founded in 2019, Legion FC now enters its fifth season of competition in the United Soccer League’s Championship division, the league’s highest level. Legion’s USL W League team will play an inaugural season starting in June.
“It’s an honor to have Nathan and Janet coach this group of players,” said Birmingham Legion FC President and GM Jay Heaps. “Having the right team to bring a new level of women’s soccer to Birmingham is essential to grow the sport, our city, and most importantly, our community of talented players.”
BUSA/AFC Executive Director Andrew Brower said, “I am excited to see the announcement of Nathan and Janet as coaches for the USL W team. Both bring a vast array of high-level coaching and playing histories at both the youth and college levels. It would be hard to find better people and stewards of the game. Their passion for excellence will be contagious to their players. We’re excited to see them thrive.”
“The opportunity to empower female players in a professional pathway in Birmingham is humbling,” said new W League Head Coach Nathan Archard. “I’m thrilled to be involved with USL W in our partnership with Legion FC and BUSA/AFC. This is a great way to serve the many successful AFC alumni who have excelled in the college ranks.”
Janet Parks, Legion’s new W League Assistant Coach noted, “These two organizations are making women athletes a priority by providing them with the opportunity to play in this league. We look forward to showcasing players who have come through Alabama. I hope to bring my experience and knowledge of the game to assist these athletes in their growth. We look forward to seeing you all cheer on the women of Legion!”
Birmingham Legion FC’s regular season begins on Saturday, March 11th at Protective Stadium. Join us at the game for more exciting announcements about the W League team. You can find more information on what to come from the Legion in 2023 and follow the growth of the women’s team through social channels and online at bhmlegion.com.
