Dixon named finalist for 2026 MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the Year

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (October 22, 2026) — Chattanooga Football Club announced today that Head Coach Richard Dixon has been named a finalist for the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the Year Award.

Austin FC II's Jason Shackell was named 2026 MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the Year.

The Coach of the Year Award was voted on by the head coaches and chief soccer officers at MLS NEXT Pro clubs, as well as league broadcasters and content team members.

Chattanooga FC finished the season tied with Austin FC II for the most victories at home – Austin FC II and Chattanooga FC were the only teams to record 10 home wins.

Dixon was recently recognized as the MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the Month for September.

CFC's first professional player signing back in 2020, Dixon was named the sixth permanent head coach in club history on August 3, 2026 after serving as interim head coach beginning in February 2026 on the eve of a new season.

Under Dixon's leadership, the Boys in Blue had its most successful season since joining MLS NEXT Pro in 2024, finishing as the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference (56 points, 15-6-7).

New club records were set in points (56), wins (15) and conference seeding (2).

Dixon then led the club to its first-ever MLS NEXT Pro playoff win this past Sunday after a thrilling 3-1 win over NYCFC II in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.

Sebastian Giraldo, CFC Chief Sporting Officer, said: "Rich fully deserves this recognition as he has led this club to a historic year. The athletes are always at the core of our success and this is a reflection of their incredible performances. He is an intelligent head coach, a great leader, and an expert in multiple disciplines. We should all look forward for what is to come."