Calgary Wild FC Announces Coaching Change as Lydia Bedford Departs
Calgary Wild FC has confirmed significant personnel changes ahead of the 2026 season, with head coach Lydia Bedford stepping down after just one season with the professional women's soccer club. The football veteran is leaving to accept a prestigious position with The Football Association as head coach of the England Women's Under-23 national team.
Bedford's Impact on Inaugural Season
Bedford, who originally hails from England, was appointed as the Wild's first head coach on January 3, 2025, marking a historic moment for the franchise. During her tenure, she played a crucial role in establishing the foundation of the new club, overseeing recruitment efforts and player development throughout the team's inaugural campaign.
"It has been a privilege to lead Calgary Wild FC through its inaugural season and to work with such a committed group of players and staff," Bedford stated. "I'm proud of the foundations and culture that have been established in the first year of the club's journey. With the character and potential of this squad and the staff supporting them, I have no doubt the team is well-positioned to achieve exciting things this season."
Under Bedford's leadership, the Wild finished their first season with a record of 9 wins, 14 losses, and 2 draws, accumulating 29 points and securing fifth place in their league standings.
Club Leadership Expresses Gratitude
Lara Murphy, president and CEO of Calgary Wild FC, expressed appreciation for Bedford's contributions during the challenging launch period of a new professional sports franchise.
"On behalf of everyone at Calgary Wild FC, I want to thank Lydia for the leadership, professionalism, and passion she brought to the club during our inaugural season," Murphy said. "Launching a new professional club is no small task, and Lydia played an important role in establishing the team's standards and culture that will guide us moving forward."
Murphy emphasized that Bedford's influence extended beyond the club itself, positively impacting Calgary's broader soccer community. She noted that the momentum generated by Calgary Wild FC and the Northern Super League has created exciting opportunities across women's soccer, with Bedford's time in the city helping position her for this next career advancement.
McSharry Steps Into Interim Role
With Bedford's departure, First Assistant Coach Sinead McSharry has been promoted to interim head coach. McSharry, who also originates from England, joined Calgary Wild FC in 2025 and played a significant role in the team's development during its first season.
The club highlighted McSharry's contributions in leading training planning and execution, directing individual player development plans, and overseeing attacking set pieces. Her people-first coaching approach, developed during her previous position as head coach of the St. Lawrence University Saints, has been a valuable asset to the Wild organization.
"I speak for everyone when I say that we wouldn't be where we are as a club today without Lydia, and we wish her all the best as she undertakes her new position," McSharry commented on Bedford's departure.
McSharry's Coaching Background
McSharry brings substantial coaching experience to her new interim role. During her tenure at St. Lawrence University, she coached 11 All-Conference players and 16 Liberty League All-Academic honorees in a single season. Prior to that, as part of the coaching staff at Hamilton College, she helped guide the Continentals to the NCAA Division III Championships in 2017 and had three players earn Second-Team All-NESCAC honors.
Additionally, during her time at Hamilton College, McSharry oversaw 40 players named Academic All-NESCAC, with four receiving All-NESCAC Sportsmanship Awards. This combination of athletic and academic achievement underscores her holistic approach to player development.
The coaching transition comes as Calgary Wild FC prepares for its second season, building on the foundation established during its inaugural year under Bedford's leadership.
