Markgraf is GM of U.S. women

Former defender Kate Markgraf was named general manager of the U.S. women’s national team, U.S. Soccer announced.

She will oversee the search for a coach to replace Jill Ellis, who is leaving the team in October. Ellis is stepping away after leading the United States to backtoback Women’s World Cup titles.

Markgraf, 42, appeared in 201 games in a playing career that spanned 12 years. She started on the 1999 team that won the World Cup at the Rose Bowl, and was part of the 2003 and 2007 World Cup teams. She played on three Olympic teams.