Portland Thorns FC GM Shifts to New Role in 2025

Portland Thorns FC's general manager, Karina LeBlanc, will step down from her role next year but will continue working with the club in a different capacity. The announcement comes after a tough season with a seven-game losing streak. LeBlanc, who is a former Canada and Thorns goalkeeper, will move to RAJ Sports to connect the Thorns with a new WNBA team in Portland. RAJ Sports bought the NWSL club in 2024. "Karina brought stability during a tough time and helped win a championship in 2022," said Lisa Bhathal Merage, a co-executive chair of the club. "We think it's time for a change to set the club and Karina up for future success. She'll stay with RAJ Sports in a role that fits her strengths."

LeBlanc started as GM in 2021 when former GM Gavin Wilkinson was put on leave. The team was investigated for mishandling complaints against former coach Paul Riley. Despite the issues, the Thorns won the 2022 NWSL Championship and made the playoffs in 2023. But this season has been challenging, with six losses in the last seven games. The club is currently in seventh place but still in the playoff spot. LeBlanc faced complex situations, like promoting then-head coach Mike Norris to a sporting director role. Although the team had early success, they haven't won a regular-season game since July 5. Former players taking executive roles don't always achieve success. LeBlanc's experience as a player and advocate for women's soccer will be valuable in her new role. "I'm excited to represent RAJ Sports and help Portland become the epicenter of women's sports," said LeBlanc.

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