Chicago Red Stars assistant coach Morinao Imaizumi will depart the club after helping lead the team to a seventh-consecutive playoff berth.

“Ima is a first-class professional. He made an immediate impact on our team,” said Red Stars Head Coach Chris Petrucelli. “I know our players will miss his experience and insight into the finer aspects of the game. We wish him well and thank him for his contribution to our club.”

Imaizumi joined the Red Stars in June during the National Women’s Soccer League regular season. With Imaizumi as assistant coach the Red Stars ended the season fourth in total goals (35), third in total assists (26) and second in corner kicks (126).

Prior to joining the Red Stars, Imaizumi was a part of the coaching staff at Florida State University. As a part of the FSU staff Imaizumi helped the team win six ACC Championships and the 2018 and 2021 NCAA National Championships. On the international level, the Japanese native was an assistant coach for the Japanese women’s national team in 2004. He also was the head coach of the U-17 and U-20 teams from 2004 to 2006.

The Red Stars thank Ima for his contributions to the club and wish him the best in his next endeavor.