KANSAS CITY, Mo. – United Soccer Coaches is proud to announce Lesle Gallimore as the 85th recipient of its Honor Award, recognizing her remarkable service to the association and exceptional contributions to soccer across all levels of the game.
Since 1942, the Honor Award has been the association’s highest accolade, celebrating individuals whose impact on the sport is profound. Gallimore will receive the award during the annual Awards Ceremony on January 10, 2025, at the United Soccer Coaches Convention in Chicago, IL.
“Being named the Honor Award recipient by United Soccer Coaches is an incredible privilege and deeply humbling,” Lesle Gallimore said.
“To be included among the 84 previous recipients, each of whom has left an indelible mark on the sport, is an honor beyond words. This recognition represents not just an individual achievement but also the culmination of the support and guidance I’ve received throughout my journey in soccer. To be acknowledged by an organization that has dedicated itself to fostering growth, education, and excellence in this sport means the world to me. I am inspired to continue contributing to the soccer community, while staying true to the values that have been instilled in me through this beautiful game.”
Gallimore currently serves as General Manager of Seattle Reign FC, guiding the club to the 2023 NWSL Championship in her first season. Her leadership in women’s soccer has been a cornerstone of her career, which includes 26 seasons as the University of Washington’s head coach and a lasting legacy as Commissioner of the Girls Academy.
She served as President of United Soccer Coaches in 2018, and her long-standing relationship with the association dates back to 1990. Gallimore has contributed to the association’s success in numerous ways, including serving on the Board of Directors, working as a staff member in the association’s Academy programs, and receiving the Bill Jeffrey Award for College Long Term Service in 2021 and the Women’s Award of Excellence in 2012.
“Lesle Gallimore truly epitomizes what the Honor Award represents,” said Rusty Oglesby, United Soccer Coaches President. “Her integrity, leadership, and passion for the game are unmatched. From excelling on the pitch to her success as a coach and now as a GM, Lesle stands as a true legend of U.S. soccer. It is a great day for our association as we honor her.”
In addition to her work domestically, Gallimore is deeply involved in global initiatives such as the U.S. State Department’s Empowering Women and Girls through Sports Diplomacy Program, traveling to countries like Morocco, Ethiopia, and Israel to promote female empowerment in sports.
Her contributions extend beyond coaching. Gallimore has served as a National Staff Instructor for U.S. Soccer, assisting the U.S. Women’s and Youth National Teams, and continues to mentor the next generation of coaches through U.S. Soccer’s SheChampions Mentorship Program and FIFA/CONCACAF women’s development initiatives.
Her influence on the sport also earned her the inaugural U.S. Soccer Carla Overbeck Leadership Award in 2023, recognizing her unique leadership qualities and her contributions to the success of initiatives beyond her own organization.
