Nashville Soccer Club Extends the Contract of Head Coach B.J. Callaghan

Nashville SC has secured its leadership for the foreseeable future, announcing a contract extension for Head Coach B.J. Callaghan through the 2028-29 MLS season. The announcement, made February 16, 2026, recognizes Callaghan’s impact since being named the second Head Coach in club history on July 3, 2024.

A Championship Season

Callaghan’s first full season at the helm in 2025 proved historic. He led the “Boys in Gold” to the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Championship, marking the first major professional sports championship for the state of Tennessee. The team defeated Austin FC 2-1 to claim the title.

Did You Know? Nashville SC’s 2025 U.S. Open Cup victory was the first major professional sports championship in Tennessee history.

Record-Breaking Performance

Beyond the championship, Nashville SC achieved unprecedented success under Callaghan in 2025. The team set several club records, including 22 total wins, 17 MLS wins, a 15-game unbeaten streak across all competitions (and a 12-game MLS unbeaten streak), 15 home wins, and a total of 75 goals scored.

Individual Recognition

The team’s success also translated to individual accolades. Nashville SC boasted a record three MLS All-Stars in 2025: Hany Mukhtar, Andy Najar, and Sam Surridge.

Expert Insight: Extending a successful coach’s contract demonstrates a commitment to stability and continued development within the organization. This decision signals confidence in Callaghan’s ability to build a sustained winning culture in Nashville.

Looking Ahead

The Boys in Gold are set to begin their 2026 season with a visit to 2025 Canadian Premier League champion Atlético Ottawa on February 17 for Round One of the Concacaf Champions Cup. They will then return to GEODIS Park on February 21 to face the New England Revolution in their MLS season opener at 7:30 p.m. CT. The team could potentially build on their 2025 success and contend for further championships. A continued focus on player development and a strong team culture may be key to future achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was B.J. Callaghan named Head Coach?

B.J. Callaghan was named the second Head Coach in Nashville SC history on July 3, 2024.

What trophy did Nashville SC win in 2025?

Nashville SC won the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2025.

How many MLS All-Stars did Nashville SC have in 2025?

Nashville SC had three MLS All-Stars in 2025: Hany Mukhtar, Andy Najar, and Sam Surridge.

What impact will this contract extension have on the future of Nashville SC and its supporters?