International Program Reappoints Head Coaches

The United States Australian Football League (USAFL) International Program is excited to announce the reappointment of Andrew Donlen as head coach of the US Freedom women’s national team and Kyle Strenski as head coach of the US Revolution men’s national team. Both coaches had successful campaigns in 2024 when the program did a big reset after the COVID disruption led to a lapse in international competition.

Andrew Donlen has demonstrated exceptional leadership in his first year with the US Freedom after the squad posted disappointing results in international competition prior to the pandemic. His approach has empowered players to embrace behavioral and cultural preparations that helped elevate the women’s program, resulting in a runner-up finish at the Transatlantic Cup in August, taking the final game to extra time. Donlen’s commitment to tactical analysis and promoting an accountable team culture has been instrumental in the Freedom’s recent successes.

“I am thrilled to be reappointed as head coach of the US Freedom,” Donlen stated. “The women in the program are an incredible group of athletes, and I am eager to harness their skills and passion as we build off our success in the TA Cup. In the coming year I want to extend the geographic representation of the program and expand the roster.”

Kyle Strenski has been a pivotal figure in the growth of the US Revolution since his selection as a player in 2002 to the first International Cup Revo squad. With over 15 years of coaching experience at the club level, he now adds senior international matches to his CV. Under his guidance, the Revolution qualified for the semi-final/prelim-final at the TA Cup, a familiar achievement in international play for the program. But, with Strenski’s leadership, they achieved less familiar and brand new heights by beating Ireland for the first time since 2005 and making their first ever international final.

“I am honored to continue as head coach of the US Revolution,” said Strenski. “Our team has tremendous potential, and I am excited to build on our recent success while we plan for 2025 and beyond. My staff was superb and our veteran leadership really shone during the tourney.”

Dan Sarbacker, a Revolution Hall-of-Famer recently appointed leader of the International Program, expressed his confidence in both coaches. “Andrew and Kyle have both shown considerable dedication and passion for their teams and this program. They have collaborated this year to achieve unmatched results for their respective sides. Their leadership is crucial as we aim to elevate the USAFL on the international stage. I am excited to work with them in the upcoming year to continue to evolve and improve the International Program.”

Sarbacker added, “Their commitment to developing players and promoting teamwork reflects the values we cherish in the USAFL. With their guidance, I believe both the Revolution and Freedom will continue to challenge at the highest level.”

Players curious about the US Freedom women’s and US Revolution men’s Australian Rules Football teams should express interest with the coaches and learn about opportunities to get involved and be evaluated in 2025. For more information about the USAFL and its international teams, please visit usafl.com.

About USAFL

The USAFL is dedicated to promoting Australian Rules Football across the United States by fostering talent, supporting social-athletic clubs, and hosting tournaments for all levels of competition. Through the International Program, the USAFL creates a pathway for US athletes from across the entire league to represent their nation on an international stage. Through competitive opportunities and community engagement, the USAFL aims to inspire the next generation of players.