Historic District E in Chinatown Hosts Ceremony Celebrating New Era for NWSL Club
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Washington Spirit officially introduced Adrián González as the club’s new head coach during an emotional press conference held at the historic District E venue in Chinatown, marking a significant milestone for the National Women’s Soccer League organization.
Ceremony Highlights
The press conference was opened by legendary DC media personality Dave Johnson, who spoke passionately about soccer’s deep roots in Washington and the historic significance of the venue. Johnson reflected on his journey covering the sport, from first reporting on a young Virginia-born player named Mia Hamm at UNC to witnessing her transformation into a USWNT legend and Women’s Soccer Hall of Famer.
“Now he gets to call more Spirit games at Audi Field, and it’s been a pleasure and privilege to cover this amazing organization and its players,” Johnson noted, setting the tone for the celebration.
Leadership Endorsement
Team captain and goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury presented González with a soccer ball marking his first day on the job, officially welcoming him into his new role. Kingsbury emphasized González’s strong connection to both players and fans, stating that he has the complete confidence of the locker room.
Washington Spirit CEO Kim Stone expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment, declaring: “I’m honored to be a part of this organization…I am where I want to be. Adrián really embodies our values and culture.”
Coach’s Vision and Commitment
González, who appeared on crutches due to a recent training injury to his other Achilles, delivered an emotional address expressing his gratitude and vision for the team’s future.
“He is grateful and thankful to all. He is more than ready to lead this team again and continue on what was being built and take it to the next level,” González stated. “He wants to be ready to win the Championship here in DC.”
The new head coach thanked players, club ownership, including Michele Kang, staff, media, and fans for their support, emphasizing that “DC is home” and expressing his commitment to the organization’s championship aspirations.
He will respect the players and their essence, and he will help them develop personally and professionally. He will meet with them and find the best ways to help them achieve their peak performance levels and succeed. He has a plan in place to guide this team through the second half of the regular season and lead them to a title. He is grateful to all in the organization who have stood by him and with him.
The Club will be hiring replacements for the staff who left with Jonatan Giráldez to OL Lyonnes. He knows the club has his back, so he knows he has time to fill the spots and guide this team to success, winning week in and week out, while also building for the future.
Proven Track Record
González is no stranger to the NWSL or the Washington Spirit’s success. During his previous tenure with the organization last season, he led the Spirit to an impressive start, securing notable victories against the defending league champions, Gotham FC under Juan Carlos Amoros, and San Diego Wave under Casey Stoney (now coaching the Canadian Women’s National Team).
His appointment follows the departure of Jonatan Giráldez, who led Barcelona Femení to championships in Spain before his stint with Washington Spirit and subsequent move to OL Lyonnes.
Organizational Support
The ceremony featured a video presentation showcasing González’s passion and excitement both on the pitch and in the workplace, highlighting his positive impact on players and the club culture. The organization emphasized his rare ability to “brighten the room and pitch every time he steps foot” in the facility.
Looking Forward
Despite his current physical limitations due to injury, González expressed optimism about his recovery and his ability to lead the team. “He is going to continue to give his best even while he can’t jump anymore right now, but he will jump again soon,” he noted, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to the role.
Legendary media personality Dave Johnson ended the press conference saying, “This is a special team, Adrián, these players drove through the worst traffic imaginable just to be here today to support you, and that means something, truly it does, this is what makes champions, and I think this team will win the championship, truly. You don’t get this opportunity often to build a legacy and something special, so embrace it, cherish it, let it guide you to the title. Please don’t take this moment for granted, it truly is a rarity to see in life and in sports. You only see it in champions.”
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