World Cup champ and Golden Glove winner to lead the Risers

MUSKEGON, Mich. — The Muskegon Risers Soccer Club announced Dr. Braeleigh McCoy as Head Coach of the Women’s Arena team. She takes over as the Risers prepare for their first season of MASLW league play in 2026-27.

McCoy was the starting goalkeeper for the US Mini Football Women’s National Team when it won the first World Minifootball Federation Women’s World Cup. She also earned the tournament’s Golden Glove as its top goalkeeper. She brings that championship experience, along with more than a decade in the small-sided and arena game, to the Risers’ sideline.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to lead the Muskegon Risers Women’s Team into this next chapter,” said McCoy. “Soccer is about more than wins and losses. It is about building a culture, creating opportunities, and inspiring the next generation of athletes. This season, we have an incredible opportunity to raise the standard, compete with passion, and represent our community with pride.”

Built for the Arena Game

McCoy’s development came through futsal. She played in ABK’s youth futsal program, a multi-time National Champion and United Futsal World Champion, and was selected to ABK’s women’s team at 14. With ABK she played in Michigan’s first-ever international futsal match, against FC Toronto. She also played for the USYF National Team, earning multiple youth national caps and serving as youth national team captain.

At the pro-am level, McCoy has played across the Great Lakes region in the PASL Women’s ranks with Great Lakes FC, GR Wanderers, Detroit Waza, and West Shore FC. She has also played in the Women’s PASL US Open Cup. She already knows Muskegon: she has played for the Risers’ women’s arena side herself.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have a player and now coach like Braeleigh,” said Pedro Sanchez, President of Business Operations. “When we looked to join the MASLW, we knew we needed someone with West Michigan roots and a knack for the small-sided game. She’s a proven winner and knows what it means to be a Riser as a former arena player and a UWS team member herself. I’m excited to watch her grow in this role and lead the Risers to new heights.”

What’s Next

McCoy’s first task is building the roster. Risers tryouts for both the men’s and women’s teams are on Saturday, November 8, 2026. Players interested in competing for a spot on the women’s team are encouraged register. [REGISTER HERE]

2026/2027 season tickets are on sale now. More info: 26-27 Season Tickets