Utah Royals FC fires coach Amy Rodriguez, searches for new president

Amy Rodriguez's team had lost 11 of its first 15 games of the season.

Utah Royals FC coach Amy Rodriguez was fired after 15 games of the club's first season.

Rodriguez, a star player who was part of the first iteration of the Royals in Utah, was chosen to lead the expansion club in April. With the team in last place – with a record of 2-11-2 – Rodriguez and goalkeeping coach Maryse Bard-Martel were both fired after

0-0 draw Saturday against Portland.

Royals assistant Jimmy Coenraets will serve as the team's interim head coach.

Royals president Michelle Hyncik will be moved to a different role in owner David Blitzer's office and will no longer oversee team operations. Real Salt Lake President John Kimball Will Do It

“This expansion season has been full of lessons and learnings, and we are now focused on revamping leadership efforts on and off the field,” Real Salt Lake President John Kimball said Sunday in a statement. “We are grateful and appreciative of Amy, Michelle and Maryse and their efforts to help reintroduce the Royals to the incredible Utah fans and international soccer community.” We believe women's sports are a vital part of Utah culture. Our club and ownership group are committed to providing a product that our fans will be proud of. Although we have faced adversity this season, we are focused on building a team off and on the field that can compete at the highest level for years to come.