Brooklyn FC on Wednesday appointed Alex Smith as head coach of its women's team ahead of the fall 2026 Gainbridge Super League season.
Smith returns to the United States after serving as head coach of Brisbane Roar in Australia's A-League Women, where he led a multi-year rebuild that ended with the club reaching the league semifinals after several seasons outside the playoffs.
Born in the United Kingdom and raised in Texas, Smith played collegiately at Centenary College and Southern Methodist University before beginning a professional career with FC Dallas of Major League Soccer. He later played in Australia's A-League with Wellington Phoenix and Gold Coast United, as well as in the Malaysian Super League.
"As we continue building the identity of Brooklyn FC Women, we are excited to welcome Alex Smith as our new head coach," said Brooklyn FC Women General Manager Samantha Johnson. "Alex brings a proven track record of developing players, establishing high-performance cultures and leading tactical rebuilds that create sustainable success. We are confident his experience will help shape a clear football identity while creating an environment where our players and staff can grow, compete and achieve success together."
The hire brings an internationally-experienced coach to Brooklyn as the club continues building its women's program. Smith is known for developing young players and implementing tactical systems designed to improve long-term performance, experience Brooklyn FC hopes will help establish a consistent identity while strengthening the squad ahead of the new season.
Brooklyn FC Women will open the season on Aug. 15 against Lexington SC at 7:00pm before hosting DC Power in the club's home opener on Aug. 21 at 7:30pm. The club is expected to announce additional roster moves and training camp details before the season begins.
The appointment is pending league and federation approval as the club prepares for its second season in the professional league.
