NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Nashville Soccer Club has made the decision to bid farewell to Gary Smith, the first head coach of the team, after a remarkable seven-season tenure that saw the club achieve significant milestones in both the USL Championship and Major League Soccer (MLS).

Under Smith's guidance, Nashville SC established itself as a formidable force, reaching the playoffs for six consecutive seasons in the USL Championship and MLS. The team's impressive run included a remarkable journey to the Leagues Cup 2023 Final, marking the first-ever appearance for the club in a major tournament and earning them a spot in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup.

During his time as head coach, Smith showcased exceptional leadership skills, fostering a highly organized and resilient team that was difficult to defeat. In the USL Championship, he led the club to a commendable 32-win record over two seasons, securing two playoff berths and achieving a second-place finish in the Eastern Conference in 2019.

Smith's transition to the MLS proved seamless, as he guided Nashville SC to four consecutive MLS Cup Playoff appearances, a feat only accomplished by two other teams in the league's history. The club recorded an impressive MLS record of 52 wins under Smith's tenure, which included three playoff victories. Additionally, Nashville SC boasted the fewest number of goals conceded in the 2023 season, sharing the top spot with Seattle Sounders FC.

Nashville SC expressed gratitude towards Smith and Assistant Coach Steve Guppy for their dedication and contributions to the team. The club acknowledged their vital role in the club's growth and wished them and their families the very best in their future endeavors.

To fill the void left by Smith's departure, former player and current Player Development Coach Rumba Munthali will assume the position of Interim Head Coach while the club embarks on the search for their next head coach. Munthali's experience within the organization makes him a strong candidate to maintain the team's success during this transitional phase.

Smith's impressive coaching career began in his native England, where he made his mark as both a professional player and in various technical staff roles at different clubs across different tiers. He achieved notable success in American soccer, winning the MLS Cup in 2010 with the Colorado Rapids and later making an impact with Atlanta Silverbacks FC in the NASL.

Nashville SC looks ahead to the future with anticipation as they begin their search for a new head coach who will continue the legacy of success and lead the team to new heights in both domestic and international competitions.