Lauren Smith leaves City Women.

Bristol City Women can confirm the departure of Lauren Smith as Head Coach after a long and successful association with the Club.

Smith joined City in 2010 as an Under-14s coach. In 2014 she became a full-time employee as the club's 9-19 years Technical Director and First Team Assistant Coach. In 2017 she left to become Assistant Coach at the Wales National Team, before returning to back to City in 2021.

Smith oversaw promotion to the top tier of women's football in 2023 and guided the Club throughout the Women's Super League campaign, which saw record-breaking crowds attracted to Ashton Gate. 

Gavin Marshall, Chair of City Women, said: “It is hard to put into words how much Lauren has given to Bristol City over the years.

“I thank her for her tireless hard work and commitment to the development of City Women, we are sad to see her go. The club is proud of the part it has played in Lauren’s development as a Coach and take this opportunity to wish her the very best for her future.

“Lauren will always be welcome back at Ashton Gate and will be missed by the staff and players.”

Lauren Smith said: “It is with a very heavy heart that I leave the club, a club that means so much to me, but the time is right for me to explore new opportunities.

“I want to thank all the staff and players that I have worked with over the years for their support and hard work on and off the pitch. I will always keep a keen eye on how City are doing and wish everyone well for the coming season.”

Loren Dykes will take on the role of Interim Head Coach while the Club begins its search for the best candidate to lead its talented squad for the upcoming Women’s Championship campaign.