Christy Holly has resigned as head coach of Sky Blue FC, effective immediately. The 32-year old Holly has been with Sky Blue since the NWSL launch and was named head coach in the days leading up to the 2016 NWSL draft.
— Christy Holly (@christyeholly) August 16, 2017
Sky Blue have struggled over the last month and have not won since July 8 when Sam Kerr’s 12-minute hat trick stole a 3-2 win against FC Kansas City. But the club has not won since and after scoring in the 2nd minute against the Spirit two weeks ago, have conceded nine goals without reply including an abysmal, 5-0 loss in Orlando last Saturday. Still the club sits only three points behind the Pride for the final playoff spot though the Reign could send them further behind with a Wednesday night win.
“First and foremost, we want to thank Christy Holly for everything he has done for Sky Blue FC,” said Tony Novo, Sky Blue FC President & General Manager. “From the first day he came to our club as an assistant coach, Christy has always been committed to Sky Blue FC, and we wish him nothing but the greatest of successes in whatever he chooses to do going forward. That said, we know that Sky Blue FC remains in great hands with Jill Loyden, Dave Hodgson, Paul Greig and Maria Dorris as we approach the remainder of the regular season with a full ambition of reaching the NWSL Playoffs.”
Christy Holly has has resigned as Sky Blue head coach. (photo courtesy: Sky Blue FC)
Holly took over a club tapped to finish near the bottom of NWSL in 2016 and miraculously had Sky Blue contending for a playoff berth deep into the summer. He took over a club scarce with resources and was credited with turning around the culture and making it a place that players did not dread being. He also mended fences with the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) which was at odds with the club at the time Sophie Schmidt left following the 2013 season. But Holly deftly maneuvered to draft Kailen Sheridan with the 23rd overall pick knowing she would be subsidized on the notion she would likely be the full-time keeper.
The Irish-born coach was also a hit with fans. His developed something of a cult following over his choice of match-day sweaters and was always quick with a smile as he interacted with fans after home matches–regardless of the result.
Shocked. That's all we can say right now. To say you'll be missed is an understatement. https://t.co/EsPGgI8vzI
— Cloud 9 (@Cloud9SBFC) August 16, 2017
The club has not yet announced an interim head coach. A decision and announcement could come as early as Wednesday night.
