Denver Summit FC Names Nick Cushing First Head Coach for 2026 NWSL Season

denver - Denver Summit FC appoints Nick Cushing, former Manchester City Women's head coach, as their inaugural head coach for the 2026 NWSL expansion season, focusing on building a competitive team and player development.

Denver Summit FC Appoints Nick Cushing as First Head Coach

Denver Summit FC has officially announced Nick Cushing as its first-ever head coach for the upcoming 2026 NWSL season. Cushing, a seasoned coach with a successful track record, expressed his commitment to creating a world-class soccer organization in Denver.

Cushing's Background and Vision

With nearly two decades at the City Football Group, including coaching positions at Manchester City Women and MLS side New York City FC, Cushing brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He aims to replicate his past success by building a competitive team from the ground up in Denver.

Building the Team

Cushing plans to adopt an attacking style of soccer, influenced by his time at CFG, and focus on acquiring players who align with this strategy. Denver has already acquired forward Ally Watt from Orlando, with a focus on leveraging Colorado's female soccer talent pool and recruiting experienced NWSL winners.

Player Development and Community Engagement

Emphasizing the development of young players, Cushing aims to create a team that excites fans, energizes players, and poses a challenge to opponents. His strategic vision and passion for player development have garnered praise from Summit FC's management, who see him as the ideal leader for the upcoming season.

Future Prospects

Denver Summit FC will debut in the 2026 NWSL season alongside Boston Legacy FC. With ambitious ownership and a dedicated fan base, Cushing is focused on laying a solid foundation for success and fostering a strong community connection through engaging on-field performances.