San Diego Wave FC has made the difficult decision to part ways with head coach Casey Stoney, the club announced on June 24, 2024. Stoney, who joined the club in July 2021 as its first-ever head coach, had become the longest-tenured coach in the league.

Under Stoney's guidance, San Diego Wave FC experienced significant success, achieving multiple milestones and establishing a strong foundation for the future. Stoney led the team to their first two trophies, the 2023 NWSL Shield and the 2024 Challenge Cup. Her regular season record as a head coach stood at an impressive 24-15-18.

President Jill Ellis expressed the club's immense gratitude to Stoney for her commitment and the positive impact she had on and off the pitch. The decision to part ways was not made hastily but was deemed necessary considering the club's ambition and current position in the season.

Replacing Stoney as interim head coach will be Paul Buckle, who previously served as an interim assistant coach for Wave FC in 2022. During that time, Buckle played a key role in helping the team reach the playoffs, making them the first-ever NWSL expansion team to achieve this feat. Buckle brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served as the Head Coach and Technical Director of Sacramento Republic FC from 2015 to 2017, leading the team to the playoffs each year, including winning the Western Conference in 2016.

Buckle's coaching qualifications include holding a UEFA Pro Coaching License and a U.S. Pro Coaching License, further highlighting his expertise in the field. The San Diego Wave FC management has expressed confidence in Buckle's ability to guide the team during this transitional period.

The departure of Casey Stoney marks the end of an era for San Diego Wave FC. However, with Paul Buckle taking over as interim head coach, the club remains hopeful and determined to continue building upon the successes achieved under Stoney's leadership.

As the NWSL season progresses, San Diego Wave FC will be eager to maintain their competitive edge and strive for further accomplishments, under the guidance of their new interim head coach.