CHICAGO (November 16, 2021) –

The National Women’s Soccer League announced today that OL Reign head coach Laura Harvey has been named the 2021 NWSL Coach of the Year. Harvey earns the award after returning for her second stint behind the OL Reign bench, where she led her team to a 7-3-2 record in the second half of the season and a berth to the 2021 NWSL semifinals.

CHICAGO (November 16, 2021) –

The National Women’s Soccer League announced today that OL Reign head coach Laura Harvey has been named the 2021 NWSL Coach of the Year. Harvey earns the award after returning for her second stint behind the OL Reign bench, where she led her team to a 7-3-2 record in the second half of the season and a berth to the 2021 NWSL semifinals. The honor marks Harvey’s third career Coach of the Year nod, the most of any coach in the NWSL. Harvey, who previously coached OL Reign from 2013 to 2017, also won the title in both the 2014 and 2015 NWSL seasons, leading the Reign to back-to-back NWSL Shields and championship final appearances. “We are incredibly happy for Laura, as this honor is well-deserved recognition for all she has achieved since her return to our club,” said OL Reign CEO Bill Predmore. “The results she delivered since taking the helm mid-season exceeded all expectations and serves as a testament to her extraordinary talents. We are proud to have her leading our team again.” Harvey, whose contract was extended through the 2023 season, returned to the league in July. The manager made an instant impact, gathering seven wins in 12 games at the helm of the team, which included an eight-game unbeaten streak spanning from August 21 to October 16. Under Harvey this season, OL Reign garnered a .667 win percentage, outscored opponents, 25-9, and led all teams in goals (35) and assists (23). Portland Thorns FC head coach Mark Parsons finished second in voting, while NJ/NY Gotham FC head coach Scott Parkinson came in third. The list of finalists was decided after a preliminary round of voting by owners, general managers, coaches, players and media. The finalists were then voted on by fans, owners, general managers, coaches, players and media. **Voting Breakdown

Preliminary Round:** Owners/GMs/Coaches (25%), Media (25%) and Players (50%) Final Round: Owners/GMs/Coaches (20%), Media (20%) and Players (50%) and Fans (10%)