Seb Hines has become the first Black manager to win a trophy in the NWSL, after leading Orlando Pride to their first-ever league title.

Hines took over the reins of the Floridian team at the end of the 2022 season, and has slowly built them into the NWSL superpower it is today. Coaching The Pride to an undefeated season so far and their first-ever trophy with three matches left in the campaign, he has already written himself into league and club history books.

He is one of two Black managers currently coaching in the American women’s top-flight, and a singular face in a handful of Black coaches scattered across leagues worldwide.

The NWSL is one of the most diverse leagues football has to offer, but that diversity has never truly been reflected on the touchlines. More Black managers are coming through the ranks globally, but even in one of the biggest women’s football leagues in the world, the coaching staff is predominantly white and male.

Hines’ success in such a short period of time means so much more than the trophies and accolades. He has added much needed visibility for young, Black players, fans and aspiring coaches to take inspiration from. Here’s to more Black trailblazers on NWSL touchlines and beyond.