The Portland Thorns named former Thorns goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc as their new general manager on Monday morning.
Prior to rejoining the Thorns, LeBlanc served as the Head of Women’s Football for Concacaf since 2018. LeBlanc’s role dealt with developing the game in 41 confederations throughout North America, Central America, and the Caribbean islands.
LeBlanc has focused on developing women’s soccer throughout the region by increasing opportunities for women in soccer across multiple areas including through grassroots and competitions platforms, development and coaching initiatives, and administration. Additionally, LeBlanc worked with the FIFA Women’s Leadership program and as an on-air personality with several TV networks.
“With Karina the sky is the limit. I’ve never met someone more passionate and set on growing the game,” said former teammate and current Thorns FC captain Christine Sinclair. “To have her back in Portland for me is a dream come true because she is going to take this club to places I don’t think people think are possible. She’s going to help this club be the benchmark for women’s football around the world and I just can’t wait to get started.”
A fan-favorite in Portland during her playing days, LeBlanc aims to replicate her on-field success from behind the scenes. LeBlanc played 15 years professionally that included winning the inaugural NWSL Championship with the Thorns in 2013. She ranks among Thorns career leaders in shutouts, saves, and goals-against average.
“When I left in 2014, I felt there was unfinished business for me here. The way the community, the club and the team made me feel, was something that I would never forget. I thought I might come back as a player, but never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be coming back as the general manager of what is for me, the greatest club in the world. My experience as a Thorn helped shape me into the woman I am today,” said LeBlanc.
Source: Thorns FC Communications
