Meet Erin Lycan Ridley

Erin Lycan Ridley
Guest Coach

Erin Lycan Ridley isn’t just a coach – she’s a trailblazer.  She made history as the first woman ever to lead a Major League Soccer academy team when she took charge of the San Jose Earthquakes’ boys’ program. After guiding the Earthquakes’ girls academy, she moved to the boys’ side in 2020 and went on to hold two unprecedented roles: head coach of the Under‑15/16 boys team and assistant coach for the U‑17/18s, both firsts for any MLS academy. Her teams have advanced deep into major tournaments such as the Generation adidas Cup, showcasing her ability to develop young players into competitors on the national stage. Erin currently serves as the assistant coach for the Boys U16 US National Team.

Erin has also blazed a trail internationally. In August 2024 she became the first woman from MLS to complete the prestigious Elite Formation Coaching License (EFCL), a rigorous 18‑month program run by Major League Soccer and the French Football Federation. The EFCL is the same pathway that has launched the careers of several MLS head coaches, and her success underscores her technical acumen and commitment to continual growth.

Beyond club soccer, Erin brings extensive national‑team experience. She is a USSF A‑licensed coach who has served on the United States U‑17 Women’s National Team staff, working across multiple cycles as a coach and scout. Her leadership contributions extend beyond the pitch: she has been a SheChampions mentor and U.S. Soccer scout, roles that focus on identifying top talent and empowering the next generation.

A proven leader and educator, Erin’s coaching journey includes over a decade in NCAA Division I women’s soccer, where her teams captured three conference championships and reached the College Cup. She previously guided Chattanooga FC Women to a WPSL Southeast Conference title and was named Coach of the Year in 2018. Her background as a former University of Virginia goalkeeper (ACC champion and team co‑captain) further illustrates the competitive pedigree she brings to her players.

Why Erin Stands Out

  • Elite Talent Identifier: Erin’s eye for potential has produced numerous college standouts, youth‑national‑team players and professionals .  Her scouting experience with U.S. Soccer helps her spot emerging talent and shape it for the next level.

  • Leadership & Mentorship: She emphasizes leadership development, communication and resilience, teaching players to be accountable teammates and community leaders. Her mentorship fosters confidence and character alongside technical growth.

  • Breaking Barriers: As the first woman to complete MLS’s EFCL program and to head an MLS academy boys’ team, Erin is a role model who proves that perseverance and expertise can redefine what’s possible in soccer coaching.

Erin Lycan Ridley combines tactical mastery with a passion for developing people. Her record of success at every level – youth, collegiate, professional and national team – illustrates why she is regarded as one of the top coaches, scouts and talent developers in American soccer. With Erin on your team, players gain a mentor who will push them to excel on the field and empower them to lead off it.