DENVER SUMMIT FC ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL COACHING STAFF AHEAD OF FIRST NWSL SEASON
- Jonathan Turner
- 47 minutes ago
- 2 min read
NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com
Nick Cushing Named Head Coach; Veteran Staff Brings International and Professional Experience to Expansion Club
DENVER, Colo. (Wednesday, Feb. 11) — Denver Summit FC officially announced its inaugural coaching and high-performance staff as the club prepares for its first season in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Head Coach Nick Cushing will lead the technical staff, joined by assistant coaches Angela Salem and Alan Mahon, former England international Karen Bardsley as Goalkeeping Coach, and James Mitchell as Video Coach.
The assembled group brings extensive experience across professional leagues, international competitions, and the collegiate ranks, positioning Summit FC to establish a strong foundation in its expansion season.
“Our staff reflects the standards and ambition of this club from day one,” said Cushing. “Each individual brings elite expertise, strong character, and a player-first mindset. Together, we are building an environment that supports high performance, development, and a style of football our players and fans will be proud of.”
Experienced Leadership Across All Levels
Salem joins Summit FC after serving as an assistant coach with Bay FC and previously the Washington Spirit. Before transitioning into coaching, she enjoyed a 12-year professional playing career, including nine NWSL seasons with Portland Thorns FC, Boston Breakers, and Western New York Flash. She also gained international experience in Australia and Finland and holds a USSF B License.
Mahon adds significant international pedigree following a successful playing career in England and Europe with Blackburn Rovers, Wigan Athletic, Burnley, and Sporting CP. A former Republic of Ireland international, Mahon has coached at the highest levels, including roles with the Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team and Manchester City Women.
Bardsley arrives as Goalkeeping Coach after one of the most accomplished goalkeeping careers in women’s soccer. A California native who played collegiately at Cal State Fullerton, Bardsley earned more than 80 caps for England and won multiple major trophies during her tenure at Manchester City. Since retiring, she has focused on academy leadership and elite player development.
Mitchell joins the club following his most recent role as a Football Analyst with Arsenal Women. The Scottish analyst brings international experience, including work with the Scotland Women’s National Team during the 2024 Nations League and European Qualifiers. He previously worked with the Washington Spirit and served as a Performance Analyst at Florida State University during the program’s national championship campaign.
Denver Summit FC will begin its inaugural NWSL season later this year.
Tickets for the club’s home opener are available at DenverSummitFC.com. Fans can also join Club 5280 for exclusive updates and benefits. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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