League: NWSL Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Utah Royals coach Jimmy Coenraets discusses challenges and resilience

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 10:16 AM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

Utah Royals coach Jimmy Coenraets discusses challenges and resilience

Summary

Jimmy Coenraets, 31, is the head coach of NWSL's Utah Royals FC. After undergoing six heart surgeries, including three open-heart procedures, he brings a unique perspective to coaching. Coenraets joined the Royals as an assistant coach in June 2024, helping to rebuild a team facing challenges in a competitive market. His approach blends his background in strategy with the realities of expanding the women's game. With personal and professional adjustments behind him, Coenraets aims to make the Royals a tougher team in the league.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Coenraets completed a 33-mile bike ride near the University of Utah.
•He joined Utah Royals FC after previously coaching in Belgium.
•His coaching style adapts to the team's strategic needs.
•Coenraets aims to improve conditions for women's soccer.
•He has a deep academic background in marketing and strategy.

Latest Updates

10:16 AMYahoo Sports — Meet Jimmy Coenraets, the 31-year-old Utah Royals coach who has had six heart surgeries

What they're saying

"
Jimmy Coenraets is not your usual coach. We are speaking shortly after he finished a 33-mile bike ride through the canyons by the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, the kind of thing the 31-year-old Belgian does on the days when he is not trying to turn the NWSL’s Utah Royals FC into one of the league’s toughest teams. “I think it’s still a Belgian piece of me,” Coenraets said. “On my days off, I try to get out and get into the canyons. Other times, I just cycle to work, to stay fit and healt
— Yahoo Sports

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