Forward Madison FC To Be A Part Of The New USL DEI Program in 2024
USL Forward is set to launch this season to increase access and opportunity across the USL ecosystem.
MADISON, WI: Today, the United Soccer League (USL) launched its signature Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program: USL Forward. This multi-dimensional, leaguewide initiative prioritizes professional development for technical staff, league and club executives, and local communities to increase racial and gender diversity in leadership roles throughout the USL ecosystem.
To start, USL Forward has created a new Pro Preseason Residency (PPR) Program to provide promising coaches with new, experiential opportunities to pursue their aspirations of coaching at the professional level. Additionally, USL Forward will create opportunities for coaching and education assistance.
This new program will kick off in February, in conjunction with the start of the preseason for USL Championship and League One clubs. It is designed to be a platform for the USL and its member clubs to innovate and lead in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion for the betterment of the game and the industry.
In this pilot year, five high-performing, pro-aspiring BIPOC and women resident coaches were nominated and selected by USL Sporting and DEI departments in collaboration with participating clubs. The participating coaches will receive immersive experience and real-world training as they work alongside pro-level head coaches and technical staff. In collaboration with its partners, the USL will also expand the number of coaching education scholarships available to BIPOC and women coaches to obtain advanced coaching licenses that will help them meet the standards for professional coaching roles.
Forward Madison FC will be one of the first five clubs to be a part of USL Forward and host a resident coach for the 2024 season. The ‘Mingos will welcome traveling resident, Troy McKerrell, newly appointed Head Coach for the Des Moines Menace.
“We are excited to be included in the first year of USL Forward and welcome Troy to our club,” said Forward Madison FC COO Conor Caloia. “As one of the first clubs to embark on this new League program, we recognize that fostering a culture of belonging is not only our responsibility but our greatest opportunity for improving innovation and success in soccer.”
McKerrell finished a successful season with USL League Two Chicago City SC in 2023. He led the team to 11 wins, the Heartland Division Regular Season Title, and the Round of 16 in the USL2 Playoffs. McKerrell is also an alumnus of the prestigious 30 under 30 program with United Soccer Coaches and is part of the United Soccer Coaches Black Advocacy Group.
“The USL Forward Pro Preseason Residency program is groundbreaking, and I am excited to be one of the first members of this program,” said McKerrell. “I have been on many club insight visits to watch and engage with coaches up close and personal. This has been, in my opinion, the most beneficial and where real learning happens. I’m excited to learn from Matt Glaeser and his technical staff at Forward Madison, who have a wealth of experience and knowledge. Finally, I would like to thank the USL & the participating franchises who are helping to change the landscape for minority coaches.”
Forward Madison’s Preseason schedule is set to be released soon. Season tickets for the 2024 Forward Madison season are on sale now. Secure your seats to every match here.
