San Diego Wave Fútbol Club announced today the addition of Karla Thompson to the club’s executive team where she will serve as Executive Director of Performance and Development. In her role, Thompson will report directly to club president Jill Ellis.

Thompson joins Wave FC from U.S. Soccer where she served as Coaching Educator. At the federation she led initiatives to evolve coaching methods to better serve the ever-changing needs of players and coaches alike.

At Wave FC, Thompson will serve in a key leadership role driving oversight of the high-performance arm and development areas of the club, Thompson will manage the strategic and functional components of the department as well as lead and develop personnel within the medical, analytical, youth coaching, and sports science functions, while also growing a culture of excellence and cooperation

“I am exhilarated and honored for this opportunity to work with San Diego Wave FC and Jill Ellis,” said Thompson. “I see a club that is building a winning foundation and culture that will be at the forefront of the league and the women’s game. I hope that my experience of 35+ years in the game, will help facilitate the club’s aspiration to reach its goals. It is an exciting time to be in the women’s game and to showcase the league in a great soccer city like San Diego.”

“We are delighted to bring Karla on board,” added Wave FC president Jill Ellis. “I have worked closely with her before, and she will be a fantastic addition to the club.”