Wave hire Camille Ashton as GM, sporting director

Field Level Media|published: Wed 12th June, 22:16 2024

NWSL: Chicago Red Stars at Kansas City Current

Jun 18, 2022; Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Kansas City general manager Camille Levin Ashton enters the field against the Chicago Red Stars prior to the match at Children's Mercy Park. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The San Diego Wave named Camille Ashton as the team's new general manager and sporting director on Wednesday.

The move comes three weeks after Ashton resigned as general manager of the Kansas City Current, 12-0 and in first place in the standings.

"I've known Cami from back in her playing days, and her impressive track record and deep understanding as both a general manager and former player, combined with her passion and energy, make her an exceptional fit with this club," Wave president Jill Ellis said in a news release.

Ashton, 34, spent two-plus seasons with Kansas City and oversaw the team reaching the NWSL final in 2022 before it lost to the Portland Thorns.

But after Kansas City's performance dropped off in 2023, the franchise brought in former United States Women's National Team coach Vlatko Andonovski as coach and sporting director. Andonovski reportedly took over some of Ashton's duties.

Now Ashton is ready for a fresh start with San Diego, which compiled the NWSL's best regular-season record in 2023 under coach Casey Stoney. However, the Wave currently are in ninth place in the 14-team league with 13 points and a 3-4-4 record.

"This is a club with a clear vision for success and a commitment to excellence," Ashton said in the news release. "I look forward to working closely with Jill, Casey, the coaching staff, support staff, players, ownership and front office to help this club win more trophies and make a lasting impact in this city.

"Being a part of the Wave and the vibrant city of San Diego, with its passionate fan base, is truly special."

Ashton is originally from Southern California.

The Wave have been operating without a general manager since Molly Downtain announced her resignation in February and departed on April 15.

San Diego's signature player is legendary Alex Morgan but the four-time Women's World Cup participant has played in just six games due to an ankle injury in April. Morgan, 34, has yet to score a goal this season.

--Field Level Media