(Vera Pauw looks away. Photo: Darla S Tamulitis of La Vita Local Photography)

Former South Africa coach Vera Pauw have parted ways with National Women's Soccer League side Houston Dash, the club has announced.

 Pauw decided not to seek for a renewal of her contract with Houston as she plans to return to her country, the Netherlands and be closer to her family.

She took over the team in November 2017 as the club's second ever manager and finished sixth at the end of the regular NWSL season with 32 points from a record of 9-10-5.

"While the Houston Dash is a phenomenal club with huge potential and an amazing fan base, I have decided to not pursue a contract extension," said Pauw on the club's website.

"Although we set club records in many categories and stayed in the playoff race until the final week of the season, it is best for me to go back to my husband in The Netherlands.

"I thank club management for the ongoing support of the changes that had to be made. I leave a young team that is ready for the future. The foundation is set, and I wish the club the success it deserves."

Prior to her time at Houston, she coached Banyana Banyana of South Africa through the 2014 Africa Women Cup of Nations as well as the 2016 summer Olympic Games.

She also managed the Netherlands and Scotland teams and served as the technical director for the Russian women's national side and spent a short-term role as interim coach of Russia.

During her active days, the 55 years old played 89 times for country before retiring in 1998.

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