Jim Robbins Departs for Head Coach Role at Virginia Military Institute
South Georgia Tormenta FC has named Kian Brownlee Head Coach of the club’s USL W League team. Brownlee, Tormenta FC’s MLS Next Director, steps into the role following Jim Robbins’ departure to become head women’s coach at the Division One level Virginia Military Institute.
Robbins guided Tormenta FC to a USL W League Championship in their inaugural 2022 season and left an impressive legacy, including a 9-1-2 record in 2024. He played a pivotal role in shaping the club’s early success, setting a high standard for the program.
Brownlee brings a strong coaching background and deep ties to Tormenta FC, having joined the club in 2020 as a coach in the Academy Select Girls Soccer Program before advancing to Junior Academy Director, Director of Coaching and Director of MLS Next. His leadership, combined with a Master’s in Health and Physical Education from Augusta State University, make him well-positioned to build upon the team’s winning foundation.
“I’m thrilled to continue the legacy of success within our Tormenta Women’s program. Our ownership, Darin and Netra Van Tassell, have built something truly special, and Jim Robbins led an incredible three-year run. Our goal is to match that success and bring another championship home this summer. I can’t wait to get started in May. Vamos Tormenta!”
Kian Brownlee, Tormenta FC W League Head Coach
Prior to his time with Tormenta, Brownlee served as the Assistant Women’s Coach at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, overseeing one of their most successful campaigns in school history in 2020-2021. In the many years before, he worked as the Girls Director of Coaching for United Soccer Academy – Mt. Pleasant driving the club’s success in Regional, NPL, and Girls Academy league play while helping dozens reach the top college and professional ranks.
Tormenta FC looks forward to this new chapter under Brownlee’s leadership as the club continues its pursuit of excellence in the 2025 USL W League season. Fans can purchase tickets here to all Tormenta W League home matches at Tormenta Stadium, and the recently announced 2025 schedule is at tormentafc.com.
