June 23, 2022 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) – Washington Spirit News Release
Washington, D.C. – The Washington Spirit is pleased to announce that Mark Krikorian, an iconic leader in women’s soccer, has joined the club to oversee soccer operations.
Krikorian brings over three decades of collegiate, international, and professional women’s soccer leadership experience to the role. As head coach of Florida State University’s women’s soccer program for the last 17 years, he transformed it into a perennial national power. The three-time National Coach of the Year and five-time ACC Coach of the Year led Florida State to NCAA Division I Championships in 2014, 2018 and 2021, maintained a record of finishing no lower than second place a total of 12 times in the Atlantic Coast Conference, advanced to 11 College Cup semifinals, and captured eight ACC championships. Krikorian also served as the head coach of the Philadelphia Charge in the Women’s United Soccer Association between 2000 and 2003, producing 10 WUSA All-Stars and leading the team to two playoff berths. He was named WUSA Coach of the Year in 2002.
“I am committed to invest in the club to drive the Spirit forward to be the best women’s soccer team in the world. Achieving this goal requires a highly experienced, transformative, and strategic leader,” said owner Michele Kang. “Mark’s track record of developing players and building winning teams is without equal. I am thoroughly impressed and energized by Mark’s soccer philosophy, his core values, and the professional standards he demands in creating and maintaining a high-performance environment.”
Krikorian, who will report directly to Kang, will oversee all aspects of soccer operations for the Spirit, further developing an unrivaled roster which, this year, includes seven players called up to the U.S. Women’s National Team. Spirit head coach Kris Ward, who will report to Krikorian, was integral in the search process along with senior players. “Mark is not only a legend within the game, but also a genuine leader of people,” Ward said. “He has a well-known record of creating programs that see success in developing both players and humans. We are lucky to welcome him into this club.”
“It’s not often in life when you are presented with an opportunity to work for someone whose commitment aligns or even surpasses your own. I have high standards and the commitment to excellence that Michele has shown to the Washington Spirit and women’s soccer in general is more than I have ever experienced or could have hoped for,” Krikorian said. “I am excited for this opportunity and look forward to growing the game and helping the Spirit grow into one of the best clubs in the world.”
Under Krikorian, the Seminoles produced 22 current or former NWSL players, including Washington Spirit captain Tori Huster. “I am beyond excited for Mark to be joining the Spirit as President of Soccer Operations and General Manager,” Huster said. “His return to the pro game brings a level of professionalism and sophistication that will help set a high bar for women’s professional soccer. My four seasons at FSU were pivotal in my development and preparation for pro soccer and I have Mark to thank for that. I am absolutely ecstatic to work with him again and excited for other players to have the chance to experience his excellence and drive firsthand. Credit to Michele for engaging with the very best and again raising the bar even higher.”
Prior to Florida State University, Krikorian served as the head coach of the United States U-19 National Team and guided the team to the bronze medal at the 2004 U-19 Women’s World Cup. Krikorian also served as the head coach at the University of Hartford from 1996-2000, reaching the NCAA Tournament in four out of his five seasons and winning three conference championships. He got his head coaching start at Franklin Pierce College, where he spent six seasons from 1990 to 1996 winning two NCAA Division II championships.
A two-time captain and standout player at St. Anselm College, Krikorian earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree from Keene State College. He is married to Linda Krikorian, and the couple has two children, Alexandra and Michael.
The Washington Spirit’s next home match will be on July 10 against the Kansas City Current at Segra Field. Fans can secure a Full 90 Club season ticket membership here or by calling 202-536-5999. Single match tickets are also available.
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