Rally Madison FC, the USL W League Club, announced today that Matt Cairns will expand his role within the organization, serving as Sporting Director of Rally Madison FC while continuing as Sporting Director of Forward Madison FC.
Cairns joined Forward Madison FC ahead of the 2026 season as Sporting Director, overseeing the club’s roster construction and player recruitment. In his first season with the club, Cairns helped build a nearly entirely new roster, identifying players who fit Forward Madison’s vision and values and have brought a strong work ethic, competitive mentality and commitment to the team. This new roster has remained in the top four of USL League One for the majority of the 2026 season and has clinched a playoff berth. Cairns will continue overseeing Forward Madison’s sporting operations while bringing that experience to Rally Madison FC, as the club enters its second season.
Cairns’ familiarity with Madison’s soccer landscape makes the expanded role a natural next step, providing continuity across both clubs. “I’m honored to start the role of Sporting Director at Rally Madison,” said Cairns. “Having attended games this past summer and seen both the talent level within USLW and the passion and energy from the fans, I couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity we have to build a championship-contending team. The work has already begun to ensure we can compete with the best in USLW, and I’m confident the Rose Guard will be proud of the team they watch in 2027 and beyond.”
Rally Madison FC completed its inaugural USLW season in 2026, establishing a foundation for the club’s future both on and off the field. Rally will build on its inaugural campaign as it continues to develop a competitive and sustainable women’s soccer program in Madison. Cairns will help guide the club’s next stage of growth, establishing a long-term sporting vision.
“This appointment makes sense as we develop an organizational vision on the sporting side that encompasses our men’s and women’s Clubs and our youth academy,” said Rally Madison FC Chief Operating Officer and Partner, Conor Caloia. “Matt has done a great job on the men’s side in just one season and we are excited for his sporting leadership with Rally Madison.”
Preparations for the 2027 season are already underway, with Cairns focused on roster development and the continued growth of both Forward Madison FC and Rally Madison FC. Additional announcements related to staff and players will be made later this year.
