Kristine Lilly Joins Texas Women’s Soccer Staff
On Thursday Texas Soccer head coach, Angela Kelly announced the hiring of Kristine Lilly as the new volunteer assistant coach.Kelly and Lilly played for two seasons at the University of North Carolina from 1991-1992.
Lilly’s resume includes five FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances and four appearances in the Olympic Games. She helped Team USA win four of the tourneys, finishing second once and third three times. Recently, Lilly added being inducted in the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame in 2012 and the Soccer Hall of Fame in 2014. Debuting for the U.S. at the age 16, she will be a valuable asset and role model to her players and having a successful season.
“The opportunity to come to The University of Texas and work with young ladies aspiring to the highest level really excites me," Lilly said, "Ange and I share a common philosophy, mentality and passion for the game. We have known each other for 20 years. We have won championships together as teammates, and now we look forward to winning championships together here at Texas!”
Kelly agrees the bond between them is strong.
“Kristine Lilly is so highly respected all over the world for her accomplishments in the game of soccer,” Kelly said. “She is a world champion and a gold medalist who had the ability to play at the highest international level for over two decades. With 352 caps, the knowledge that she possesses in reference to the game is tremendous. As a staff, we can’t wait to have that type of expertise sitting beside us on the bench. Her passion and competitive spirit will be infectious for this program. This is truly a home run for the soccer program and The University of Texas.”
The soccer team will have an exhibition game tomorrow, Friday at 7:30 p.m. against Incarnate Ward at Mike A. Myers Track and Soccer Stadium. The Exhibition is free and open to the public.
