Welcome Coach Christiane Lessa – Our New Girls Director at Florida Rush!
We are proud to officially welcome Christiane Lessa to the Florida Rush family as our new Girls Director of Coaching!
Coach Chris brings an exceptional blend of international, professional, and youth development experience to the club. Her coaching journey has taken her around the world—from the Norwegian League and the NWSL, to the NCAA and Brazil’s legendary Santos FC. She has also contributed to the growth of the Chinese Youth National Teams and made history as the first female coach to assist a men’s professional team in the United States.
But beyond the accolades and high-level experience, Coach Chris is a builder—of programs, players, and people.
Her passion for youth development is evident in her long-standing commitment to the grassroots game. Over the past two decades, she has served in leadership and coaching roles at some of the most respected youth clubs in the country:
Coach Chris has also spent over two decades building a strong foundation in youth development. She has worked with several respected clubs across the U.S., including Miami Lakes SC, Plantation SC, Weston FC, Sunrise SC, Pflugerville FC (where she also served as Technical Director), and most recently Sterling Soccer Club. Her experience spans girls’ teams across all age groups, and she has consistently been recognized for her ability to elevate players through intentional coaching and connection to the community.
In addition to her hands-on coaching work, Coach Chris holds certifications from USSF, CBF Academy, and CONCACAF, and is fluent in three languages: Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Her ability to communicate, connect, and lead across diverse backgrounds is one of the many things that sets her apart.
Coach Lessa is stepping into this role at a pivotal time for our girls’ program. With her leadership, we are launching a new era built around intentional structure, competitive opportunities, and long-term player development. From Academy to DPL, Aspire, and GA, our goal is to give every girl a clear pathway to grow, compete, and thrive.
"We didn’t just hire a coach—we hired a leader," said Florida Rush CEO Richie Gray. "Coach Chris came highly recommended by leaders we trust, and after getting to know her, it was clear she brings the right mix of experience, energy, and vision to elevate our girls’ program. We’re excited to build this next chapter with her."
Coach Chris officially begins her role on April 21, 2025, and will begin meeting with teams, players, and families right away.
"I'm incredibly honored to join Florida Rush and lead a program with such potential and heart," said Coach Lessa. "My goal is to create an environment where every girl feels empowered to grow, compete, and find joy in the game. I can't wait to get started.” She will oversee player development across all age groups, lead coaching education, and help align our girl’s program with national platforms and college exposure pathways.
Please join us in giving Coach Chris a warm Florida Rush welcome! We are excited for the future of our girl’s program and can’t wait to watch it grow under her leadership.
Welcome to your new home, Coach Chris!
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