On Thursday, the Orlando Valkyries announced a mutual parting with head coach Amy Pauly who lead the team to an MLV championship in 2025. Pauly finishes her career in Orlando with a record of 39-41, including a nine-match win streak en route to their lone championship.
“I’m so grateful to have spent the last three years in Orlando and I am thankful I had the opportunity to serve as their leader and bring the Valkyries their first championship in 2025,” Pauly said in a press release.
Pauly was named the first coach of the Valkyries and remained head coach despite a league-worst 8-16 record in 2024. She turned the team around in her second year, improving by 10 wins in the regular season.
However, the 2026 season saw regression, with Orlando finishing 13-15, missing the playoffs as the reigning champions. With injuries to every starter and a 4-10 record at Addition Financial Arena, both Pauly and the front office wanted a change.
“I will certainly miss all of the fun memories made here in Orlando and the ever growing love our fans showed on a nightly basis in making Addition Financial Arena truly one of the best home-court advantages in the sport,” Pauly said. “The Valkyries front office has made tremendous strides in moving the organization forward, and I know they are in great hands!”
Pauly’s departure comes as former Florida Gator and 2026 first round pick Bre Kelley announced she is not returning to Orlando. In her rookie season, Kelley was one of six Valkyries selected to the All-Star Match.
The Valkyries will begin a search for their second head coach in franchise history, looking to return to championship form.
“We wish [Pauly] nothing but the best as we move into a new era of Valkyries volleyball,” Valkyries President Erik Nilsen said in a press release Thursday.