Durham Reporter

The North Carolina Courage has announced the departure of Curt Johnson, their Chief Soccer Officer. Johnson has decided to leave the club to pursue other opportunities, and an international search for his replacement will begin immediately.

Courage Majority Owner and Chairperson Steve Malik will collaborate with Senior Vice President/Assistant General Manager Bobby Hammond to manage day-to-day technical operations until a new Chief Soccer Officer is appointed. The timing of Johnson's resignation was coordinated with Malik to minimize disruption within the organization.

Johnson's tenure with the North Carolina Football Club spanned 14 years, during which he played a significant role in the team's success since their relocation from Western New York after the 2016 NWSL season. Under his leadership, the Courage secured seven league trophies, including three NWSL Shields, two NWSL Championships, two Challenge Cups, and the 2018 International Champions Cup. The team also achieved a regular season record of 87 wins, 48 losses, and 31 draws under his guidance.

Johnson joined as President of the Carolina RailHawks in 2011 and worked concurrently with both men's and women's teams from 2017 through 2023. He helped North Carolina FC win the USL League One Championship in 2023 before focusing solely on the Courage.

Steve Malik expressed gratitude for Johnson's contributions: “We are incredibly grateful for Curt’s 14 years with the North Carolina Football Club. His expertise and vision have been vital to our sustained on-field success... Our focus now is a worldwide search for the next leader of our technical staff who will fit our culture and vision to build upon our successes."

Reflecting on his career, Johnson said: “As I reflect on my nearly 50-year involvement in soccer here in the Triangle... This club has come so far... I’m forever grateful to Steve Malik for this opportunity.”

Johnson began playing soccer at Capital Area Soccer Club (now NCFC Youth) and is a member of several halls of fame. His professional career included roles at adidas and Richmond Kickers before serving as General Manager of Kansas City Wizards (now Sporting Kansas City), where he led them to multiple championships.