For the third year in a row, the Portland Thorns are on the hunt for a new head coach.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Thorns announced that they have agreed to part ways with coach Rob Gale.

“We are grateful to Rob for his dedication to the Thorns and the positive influence he has had on our players and staff,” said Thorns General Manager Jeff Agoos in a news release. “We thank Rob for his contributions and wish him the best in his next endeavor.”

The Thorns did not give a reason for Gale’s departure.

The club announced that Sarah Lowdon will serve as coach in the interim. Lowdon has previously coached with the Houston Dash and U.S. Youth National Teams.

Gale first joined the Thorns as an assistant coach in 2023. He was elevated to the head coaching position in 2024 when the club reassig

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