Category: Analysis

Around the World of WoSo: Harvey Takes the Reigns, Matildas on TV

Posted on by RJ Allen

Edwards to Sweden:

A couple of months ago, former Orlando Pride player Becky Edwards announced her retirement from the NWSL. But it seems the 28-year-old midfielder/defender has found new life in Sweden, as the club Kristianstad DFF have announced her signing this past weekend. Edwards is set to play again, in a lower-tier club, but with players such as Lisa Karlsson, Johanna Rasmussen and Alice Nilsson.

Edwards is no stranger to new adventures on the soccer front, and she’s traveled to a handful of different cities and countries to play the game she loves. Early on in the States it was New Jersey Wildcats, then the Washington Freedom Reserves, before moving on to California’s FC Gold Pride, and Western New York Flash. She them suited up for Sweden’s Hammarby IF DFF and her current club Kristianstad DFF. Since the start of the NWSL in 2013 she has played for Portland Thorns, Houston Dash, and the Western New York Flash before ending her US domestic career with the Pride in 2016.

 

Harvey’s New Role:

Seattle Reign head coach and General Manager Laura Harvey has temporarily been given the U.S. U-23 job. They are currently in Spain for the La Manga tournament, which will take place between March 2nd and March 7th. This might not come as a surprise for those of you who were aware that Harvey was in attendance for the team’s January camp.

The U-23 team will take on Japan, England and Norway to conclude the tournament. This will be the first international competition of the 2017 campaign and they also are booked at the end of March to play in the Portland Thorns Spring Invitational. Out of the 22-player roster, Harvey will be accompanied by two members of the Seattle Reign, Madalyn Schiffel and Kristen McNabb. Schiffel is a goalkeeper signed after a tour with Norway’s Avaldsnes IL, and McNabb was the 37th pick in the recent 2017 NWSL College Draft.

With Harvey at the helm, expectations are, of course, going to be high.

 

FIFA PRO 2016 Shortlist:

The shortlist for the 2016 FIFA Pro World XI was released this past week. The U.S. leads the nominations with nine players, France comes in second with eight, and Germany holds up third with six. The short list consists of 55 players in total, including five goalkeepers, 20 defenders, 15 midfielders and 15 forwards.

I was surprised by a few of the names, including United States’ midfielder Megan Rapinoe and defender Meghan Klingenberg. Obviously both of these players are very talented and there’s no denying that, but for the World XI?  For 2016? Both players were under-par last year, hampered by injuries, and neither played near to the level that they are capable of when healthy and fit. I just don’t buy it. However, for the most part, I agree wholeheartedly with the selections. Rightfully on the list were familiar names such as: Melanie Behringer (GER), Ada Hegerberg (NOR), Steph Catley (AUS), Steph Houghton (ENG), Hedvig Lindahl (SWE), and Saki Kumagai (JPN).

 

Portland Re-sign Duo:

The Portland Thorns have now brought back their 17th and 18th players from their successful 2016 season. Though they did not advance to the NWSL Final in Houston, the Thorns did take home the NWSL Shield for the first time in program history.  And both Emily Menges and Mana Shim, now officially back in the Rose City for 2017, played significant and crucial roles in chasing down that spot at the top of the regular season table.  Menges, a 2014 College Draft signing, is just 24 years old, but she’s started 59 games for the Thorns and some would name her as one of the biggest reasons for the team’s success. Shim is just a year older at 25, and the product of an open tryout in 2013, but she’s also a steady contributor on the pitch, and with the potential for the 2017 Thorns to find themselves atop the table again, it’s safe to say that both are happy to be back with the team this year.

 

Houston Dash Sign Falknor:

The Houston Dash announced another off-season signing this week, this time adding a player to their defensive options. Claire Falknor is a defender/midfielder, having played the latter during her time at Bayern Munich, where she made nine appearances in 2016 and scored two goals. Falknor is only 23 and played for the University of Florida from 2012-2015. She has also earned experience at the youth level for the United States, getting two caps for the U-23 program in the 2015-2016 season. Falknor will be a familiar face to some of the Dash players, especially former teammates Cari Roccaro and Jane Campbell, and this will only help to strengthen Houston’s performance on the field.

Houston is looking to improve from last year, and with the pieces they’ve managed to find, on paper it looks decent. But in the NWSL we know that isn’t always enough. Nonetheless, Dash fans have every right to be excited to get underway.

 

Matildas on Fox Sports:

The 2017 edition of the Algarve Cup in Portugal will begin on March 2nd and conclude on March 7th. The Matildas are in the tournament for the first time in 17 years, and it’s been announced the home fans will be able to watch every game on Fox Sports.

This is not only great news for fans Down Under, as it gives the AUSWNT some well-deserved exposure, but it’s also also a chance to see the talent-heavy Australian women play some great competition.  The Matildas are set to face Sweden, the Netherlands, and China in group C. The group stage games will be televised, as well as final placement depending on who tops the group.

This will be the first time the Matildas take the field since the 2016 Rio games in August. But their quest for the cup won’t be easy–defending champions Canada are back as well and certainly look to retain the title.

Where in the World is WoSo: Liberia

Posted on by RJ Allen
Where in the World is WoSo is an occasional series focusing on some of the lower-profile or lesser-known Women’s National Teams and soccer leagues around the globe. These are teams we feel deserve a shout-out for their efforts both on and off the pitch to build a love of soccer in their communities and nations.
 
The Liberia Women’s National  Football Team hasn’t taken the field in an official FIFA match since 2014, but make no mistake, women’s soccer is alive and well in Liberia.
 
UWSNT coach Jill Ellis and goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris traveled to the country late last year to advocate for women’s soccer, part of the #GROWTHEGAME movement. While in Liberia, Ellis and Harris spent their time visiting Monrovia Football Academy, doing a little coaching and training and sharing their experiences with sports and what soccer has contributed to their own lives. Harris spoke positively of the trip, calling the experience “life-changing” and speaking of the way the Football Academy uses the sport of soccer “to break down gender barriers, improve academic performance, and produce well-rounded leaders.” The message is clear: Liberia loves soccer, and soccer is far more than just a sport to its people.
 
However, on the national team level as well as the club level the sport is under-organized, both in terms of administrative support as well as the field training. American Lani Fortier, who was invited to play with the previous iteration of the women’s professional league in Liberia after “a local coach spotted her kicking a ball around with friends,” recalled in 2011 that:
 
I spent most of my career as a Lady Pro Anchor pretty confused. […] A bus would show up and be like, ‘We have a game today.’ Really? It’s 2 o’clock on a Wednesday, but okay.
An “informal” practice of the women’s national team takes place in a town square, Paul Coover shares, on a dirt field with traffic sometimes interrupting play and only a single ball after one is punctured by a rusty goal’s old support post. And after, “the practice the girls all head their separate ways. They do not have plans for when to practice next, and no games are scheduled.”
 
But, still, women and soccer persist in the nation. In 2016, after a two-year absence, the Liberia Football Association resurrected a women’s league with roots stretching back to the 1980s and featuring eight clubs with names like Earth Angels, Island Queens, Senior Professional Sisters, World Girls, and my personal favorite, Determined Girls. According to Brooks, the new season is scheduled to begin in March, when the Earth Angels will defend their 2016 title.
 
Of course, the state of play in Liberia is not without problems. Problems that seem all-too-familiar to fans of women’s soccer across the world. As Martina Brooks writes in August of 2016, female sports and leagues in the nation suffer from a lack of perceived “commercial value,” low pay that results in players leaving the sport long before their time, inconsistent support compared to the men’s teams and players, and a failure to attract attention from press which, in turn, translates to an inability to build fanbases or followings. In our correspondence, Brooks added that financial issues and lack of practice and playing equipment hamper the development of play and the growth of players in the country.
 
In the past, FIFA has been underwhelmed by the attention that women’s soccer and the development of women’s soccer has received by the country. In 2013, the sport’s global governing body sent a consultant to the country in order to “help the local body identify social-cultural barriers that work against the growth of female soccer and how to remove or lessen their influence.”  FIFA’s Financial Assistance Program has budgeted substantial funds for Women’s football in Liberia over the past several years, and also assisted in building a technical center, renovating the national stadium, and more for the country. So attention is being given not only to the growth of soccer in the nation, but to the development specifically of “grassroots football and youth football and women’s football.”
 
But the problem, it seems, is that anytime progress is close, the system of women’s soccer (even soccer in general) disassembles, whether by war, by disease, or disinterest from those charged with overseeing the development of the women’s game. Danesius Marteh, writing for LiberianSoccer.com, shared a quote from Musa Bility on the Liberia Football Association’s responsibility to female players:
We have no obligation to female clubs. Even under the FAP where we are told to spend a certain amount of that money on female football, your understanding or the lack of it of that statement should not lead you into blending us as not supporting female clubs.
And just last year, Rochelle Woodson, who was a member of the Liberia Football Association’s Executive Committee, and who once said that a “women[‘s] football league in Liberia can get bigger and grow” with a focus on “sponsorship and individual motivation,” was removed from her position (reportedly due to her absence while on maternity leave).
 
Woodson had previously suggested that the LFA was in the process of trying to organize “a school league of female soccer,” a movement which the head of the Women’s Football Committee within the LFA seems to have confirmed is moving forward with plans to bring the sport to girls in schools across the nation. Ciata Bishop has said that 
 
“We need more female players, more female referees, more ball girls, as well as female medics and to archive our goals we want to reach out to the counties and identified girls who have passion for the game and see how we can train and develop them.”
Women’s soccer in Liberia is a story with many twists and turns, with chapters that seem empty and others that seem cut off too soon. But right now, with Bishop’s leadership on the Women Football Committee and representing Liberia at FIFA Women’s Football development events, there is much to hope for.
 
As Bishop herself says, responding to Liberia’s invitation to the 2017 FIFA Female Leadership Development Program taking place earlier this month (beginning on February 6, 2017), “We now have a voice.”
 
We at Backline Soccer can’t wait to see how they use it.
 
 
Liberia Women’s National Team Information:
 
Association:  Liberia Football Association
Confederation:  Confederation of African Football (CAF)
Sub-Confederation:  West African Football Union (WAFU)
Current FIFA Ranking: 135 (High: 92, 2009; Low:  144, 2007)
 
Upcoming Fixtures: 
 
N/A
 

Follow the Liberia Women’s National Team on Social Media:

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The Pressure of Passing in the NWSL

Posted on by RJ Allen

On average, a team has 350 pass attempts, 133 defensive actions, 40 set pieces [free kicks, corner kicks, and throw-ins], 10 shots, and 1 goal per game. Yet, the only thing remembered and rewarded are the goal scorers. I cannot fault anyone for this. There is nothing like watching a rocket into the upper 90. I mean, I can watch Christen Press goal replays for days. However, goals alone cannot explain how a game unfolded. Everything else I mentioned can explain the state of a game or a team or a season but it requires a lot more memory and the ability to compare objectively. Thus, for the next few months, I will deconstruct the 2016 NWSL and USWNT season using WoSo Stats. This will be a series split between Backline Soccer and Positives and Negatives. Please note, the data in this post represents 78 games from the 2016 NWSL season (only Portland has a complete set of data). For the visuals that illustrate player position, the data points are the average of the players in said position for their team. In addition, only players who have at least 180 minutes logged are included. For now, we start with basics!

Figure 1. On average, a team has 350 pass attempts, 133 defensive actions, 40 set pieces [free kicks, corner kicks, and throw-ins], 10 shots, and 1 goal per game. Here, you can see how these stats break down for each team.

As mentioned before, on average, there are 350 pass attempts for a team per game. Even from the simple bar graph (Figure 1), there is a clear indication that Seattle has the most attempts per game. However, we can get a better indication of the quality of these passes and who makes them if we compare pass attempts per 90 minutes vs. pass completion percentage. There is a linear trend, which is especially notable if we ignore the positions and just compare by teams (not shown here), with the only outlier being Seattle. This indicates that as pass attempts increase, the percentage of these passes completed also increases and this is very favorable.

Figure 2. As the number of pass attempts increases, the completion rate increases. The bold line is the overall trend and the curved lines indicates the 95% confidence interval (there is a 95% chances a data point lies between these lines).

A bigger part of this visual is deconstructing pasted on player position – forward, midfielder, defender. There is a clear indication that midfielders (green) and defenders (blue) are more involved in the game than the forwards (orange). This makes sense because a forward needs to finish the sequence with the ball into the back of the net. However, we can also examine each team individually. For instance, the Spirit’s defenders and midfielders have an almost equivalent number of pass attempts per 90 and with one of the highest completion rates, while their forwards make fewer passes with a lower completion rate (Figure 3A). Other teams that follow this same pattern include Seattle, Kansas City, and Orlando.

Figure 3. Click the image for full size. A) Washington Spirit has a similar pass attempts and completion rate for their defenders and midfielders in comparison to their forwards. B) Portland Thorns has a similar completion rate for their defenders and midfielders but midfielders have more pass attempts. C) Chicago Red Stars have a similar completion rate among all positions with different pass attempts.

In comparison, there is a completely different pattern if you examine a team like Portland Thorns, whose midfielders make more passes than the defenders and the same completion rate (Figure 3B). Interestingly, Boston follows a similar pattern and – to a lesser extent – the Western New York Flash (now the North Carolina Courage). In fact, the Flash make the least number of open play passes, passes that do not include set pieces, and we will investigate this further on a later date. Houston and Sky Blue also illustrate higher passing in the midfield, but these teams follow the actual trend. Chicago is the only team that maintains the same pass completion percentage for all of their positions with the number of pass attempts relatively similar (Figure 3C).

Figure 4. Typically, forwards and midfielders are under higher pressure than defenders (as expected). Therefore, forwards are less likely to complete their pass in comparison to the other two position. Midfielders have the largest discrepancy between teams. Note the scale difference on each axis.

A good portion of passes are taken under pressure. On average, 68% of passes from forwards, 61% of passes from midfielders, and 50% of passes from defenders are taken under pressure, with a completion rate of 80%, 84%, and 83% respectively. While the forwards and defenders form a cluster, the midfielders are a bit more spread in their range (Figure 4). This was also the case in an interactive on defense I built last year. On the spectrum, Washington Spirit midfielders completed more passes under pressure in comparison to Western New York Flash midfielders. At the same time, Orlando Pride midfielders faced less passes under pressure compared to Seattle and Kansas City. In fact, Orlando defenders had the lowest percentage of passes under pressure compared to anyone, though as I previously tweeted, Orlando also had the least defensive action per game as well. Clearly, this layer of analysis is not enough to understand the consequences of less pressure. If I were to venture a guess, many of these averages and any future data is a consequence of the current game structure, in which certain teams face a ‘rival’ four times rather than twice. In Orlando’s case, they faced Houston four times. For now, I will save the analysis of passes under pressure and defensive action for next time.

Part II will appear on Positives and Negatives in 1-2 weeks. Make sure to follow now so you do not miss a post!

Make sure to check out WoSo Stats on Twitter, how you can help, the stats database, definitions of these stats, and some visualizations courtesy of WoSo Stats. Special thanks to the fans who dedicate their time logging matches. The visualization presented here are my own and will made public once all matches are logged. I often tweet out random visuals while exploring so make sure to follow my Twitter!

Around the World of WoSo: Lloyd to City, Kemme and Huth out for Germany

Posted on by RJ Allen

Lloyd bleeds blue:

United States midfielder and two-time FIFA Women’s Player of the Year Carli Lloyd has decided to call Manchester City home for the next four months. Lloyd is expected to be reunited with her Houston Dash club in June, meaning she will miss the first two months of the NWSL season.

This is the first time the two-time Olympic Gold medalist will be playing internationally at the club level. In her first interview for City, Lloyd expressed that one of the biggest draws to playing in Europe was the possibility of competing in the FA Cup and the Champions League. I certainly can’t blame her for wanting that experience and she has the right to finally choose where she wants to go.

The FAWSL champions have brought in Lloyd in addition to an already intimidating roster which includes England’s star players Steph Houghton, Lucy Bronze, Jill Scott, and Karen Bardsley. Lloyd joins the high-profile list of USWNT stars making way to Europe, joining Crystal Dunn (Chelsea Ladies), Alex Morgan (Lyon), and Heather O’Reilly (Arsenal Ladies).

German pair out for SB Cup:

Two major players on Germany’s 2016 Olympic Gold medal team will not be making an appearance at the upcoming She Believes Cup. Tabea Kemme and Svenja Huth have 38 and 26 appearances respectively for Germany, and have scored two goals between them. When not repping their country on the international level, both play at Turbine Potsdam, one of the top teams in the German Bundesliga.

Kemme recently had surgery to repair a torn right meniscus and while Huth doesn’t have any major injuries, there is enough concern about the status of her right knee to keep her out of the SB Cup.  Replacements for the two are Verena Faißt (30 caps, three goals) of FC Bayern Munich and Hasret Kayikçi (one cap) of SC Freiburg.

While this is obviously not good news, Germany still has plenty of power on the roster. Some of the biggest names in the game that include Dzsenifer Marozsan, Anja Mittag, Alexandra Popp, Sara Dabritz and Josephine Henning. The German team took second in the 2016 inaugural She Believes Cup, and their roster this year features a majority of the same players.

The Gals in red:

The new 2017 USWNT kit has been revealed this past week, an all-red color scheme that has the latest campaign called #RedToToe. This new kit will make its debut at the #SheBelievesCup on March 1 when they face England in the opener. The Americans are the reigning champions of the tournament, which first took place last year.

The signature “1 Team, 1 Nation” motto is back on the inner sleeves while the staple “USA” remains on the back of the collar. At first glance I don’t mind the red look, but it looks so similar to the standar template of other countries, such as England and Portugal. I usually wait to hold off judgment until I see them on the players or in person. (Fun fact: each kit has been made from recycled plastic bottles, 16 to be exact.)

Matildas announce Algarve roster:

The 24th edition of the Portugal’s prestigious Algarve Cup will begin March 1 and conclude with the final on March 8. It remains highly competitive, even with the United States winning it a record 10 times. The Algarve cup has always attracted high-ranking teams like France, Germany, Sweden, Japan and Brazil, and continues to do so this year. The Matildas last competed in the Algarve in 1999, finishing fifth out of a possible eight, and they undoubtedly look to finish even higher in the 2017 edition.

Head coach Alen Stajcic has plenty of veterans to help lead this team. Clare Polkinghorne, Lisa De Vanna, Kyah Simon, Steph Catley, and Caitlin Foord have all been named to the roster. But don’t count out some of the talented youth he is bringing in, including Amy Harrison (nine caps), Gema Simon (five caps), Ellie Carpenter (five caps), Emma Checker (three caps), and Alex Chidiac (one cap).

The 2017 tournament will also feature last year’s champions, Canada, as well as Japan, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Portugal, Russia, and China PR.

Jordan nets hat-trick:

Former Florida Gator and star forward Savannah Jordan had a professional debut to remember on Sunday. In the Scottish Women’s Premier League opener, Glasgow City FC took on Jeanfield Swifts and it was Savannah who shined the brightest.

In an eight goal rout, the newest member of City opened the scoring in the 30th minute, with a header that had no chance of being saved. Eight minutes later, after a goal by Abbi Grant, Jordan sent in an assit to Grant, who pushed the lead to three. Jordan had to use her head once again in the 45th minute off a corner from Leanne Ross. To complete her hat-trick in the 87th minute, Jordan once again found service off a corner to drive a powerful header home.

Glasgow has won the title for the last 10 years and this game showed they are already ready for whatever the season brings them.

USWNT book Russia in April:

The United States Women’s National team has confirmed that they will play Russia in a pair of friendlies in April. Both games will be played in Texas, with the April 6th game in Frisco’s Toyota Stadium in Frisco, to be televised by FS1. The second game is April 9th at BVAA Compass Stadium in Houston, the site of 2016’s NWSL Championship game, and will be aired on ESPN. The last time these two teams met was back in 2014.

The Russians are ranked 23rd in the world, and have never beat the Americans in the handful of times they’ve met. The USWNT have played in Texas 17 times and have never suffered a loss in the Lone Star State.

These will be the final international matches before the NWSL season kicks off the following week.

A Look at Season Tickets Around the NWSL

Posted on by RJ Allen

With the NWSL season quickly approaching (no schedule available at the time of posting), it’s time to take a look at the different season ticket options around the league.

This year’s NWSL season features 12 games at the home field of each club (24 in total)—up from the 10 home game, 20 total games in 2016. Without the World Cup or the Olympics to break up the season, it’s likely to be more fluid than in years past.

Before we get into this, I want to make it clear, I am only looking at full season packages. No flex packs here.

Let’s start by taking a look at the league as a whole. 

Sidenote: I decided on what was “premium” and what wasn’t based on what was offered and other details. They sometimes match up with the club’s ideas and sometimes they do not. 

[table id=6 /]

A few notes:

  1. A few clubs have supporter sections, but be warned the lower price sometimes comes with the drawback of being standing room only. More on that later.
  2. Both Chicago and Seattle offer 4-person tables at $3,000 and $3,600 respectively. So $750 and $900 a person. Not bad if you want field seats with food and drinks included. (We believe Seattle includes food and drink.)
  3. FC Kansas City and North Carolina Courage both had the most options under $200, with 3 each.
  4. Boston and Washington are the only teams with no options under $200.

Now here’s a look at the season ticket picture on a team-by-team basis:

The Boston Breakers

[table id=7 /]

Upsides: 

  • The Breakers are consistent with what rewards you get. No locking lower level ticket holders out of events to get them to upgrade.

Downsides: 

  • Boston’s packages were the most expensive for all of the “non premium” options. But considering they are located in one of the most packed sports towns in the country, this isn’t totally out of line. 
  • If you wanted a cushioned seat you better be ready to give the Breakers $990 for it.

What I’d Buy: Category B Season Membership – $360

The Chicago Red Stars

[table id=14 /]

Upsides:

  • The Red Stars give guaranteed seating to season ticket holders for the playoffs. It’s a nice touch for a team that is usually in the playoff hunt.
  • If you do go for the Fieldside VIP or the VIP Table, both come with waiter service.

  • 15% off Red Stars Merchandise is a great perk. 

Downsides:

  • The Harlem End / Local 134 Season Ticket section is standing room only. And the next option up is $80 more.
  • Because they don’t open all of the seating at Toyota Park, you are somewhat limited in what you are able to sit.

What I’d Buy: Sideline Club (126) – $320

Chicago Fire Comparable: Premier $595

FC Kansas City

[table id=15 /]

Upsides:

  • Payment Plan options are always nice to see.
  • Ticket Exchange Program is a good option if you want the perks but might not make it to all the home games.
  • Again, a team usually in the playoff mix bringing up playoff tickets. Nice.

Downsides: 

  • While there are two packages under $180 you have to go to the $180 level not to be sitting on the grass or in the supporters section. And knowing the Blue Crew, they are going to be up and active all game (as a supporters group should).
  • You will have the sun in your eyes for a bit if you sit on the east side.

What I’d Buy: West Elite (109) – $264

The Houston Dash

[table id=16 /]

Upsides:

  • Another team allowing for ticket exchange. Thumbs up.
  • Another team giving 15% off merch. Double thumbs up.
  • Any of the season ticket packages will get you on the Dash Season Ticket Member Ticket Wall, if you’re into that kind of thing.
  • I usually get nervous when I see the “..and more” but the Dash they seem pretty good at treating their fans well.
  • They give season ticket holders “inclusion in orange rewards loyalty program,” so that’s neat.
  • Actually, the Dash have the highest number of choices for season tickets.

Downsides: 

  • No one puts baby in the corner…except the Dash for General Admission. It’s not the end of the world, but it’s also not the best GA we’ve seen.
  • No upper bowl—again not the end of the world.

What I’d Buy: 100 Level East Sideline (127) – $276

Houston Dynamo Comparable:  100 Level Center Circle $980

North Carolina Courage

[table id=17 /]

Upsides:

  • You might be wondering why I didn’t put the perks next to the tickets. That’s because the list is so long if I wrote it out for each level it would add over 25 inches to this already crazy-sized piece. Here they are:
    • North Carolina Football Club Membership
    • GA Parking included in all season ticket member packages
    • Choice of game day experience items
    • Have your child participate as a player companion
    • Pregame field visit
    • Special gift delivered to seat
    • Photo on the video board
    • Pregame clinic
    • Luncheon with the head coach
    • Meet & greet with team captain
    • Holiday card photo op
    • Seat upgrade ability on game day
    • Ceremonial coin flip/first kick/Starting XI photo
    • Merchandise or concessions coupon
    • Ability to purchase additional tickets at the season ticket member rate
    • Invitation to offseason winter party
    • Special access to NCFC and/or NC Courage preseason games
    • Season ticket member gift
    • Flexible interest free payment plan
    • Invitation to meet the team event
    • Dedicated NCFC ticket representative
    • 4+ Season Tickets receive VIP parking pass
    • Exchange unused tickets for any NCFC and NC Courage games (Specific to each team)
    • Voting rights and input on selected matters that primarily affect fan experience
    • Ability to donate unused tickets to charitable Kicks for Kids Night
  • “Voting rights and input on selected matters that primarily affect fan experience.” I’m pointing this one out because I am that impressed with it.
  • Luncheon with the head coach, meet & greet with team captain, holiday card photo op—also really nice.
  • Their base level covers a ton of seats. Really gives you options there.

Downsides:

  • No supporters section for the Courage (It’s in black on their guide) like for NCFC. Might come later, but it’s a small strike against them for now.

What I’d Buy: Premier / Terrage Midfield (107) – $276

NCFC Comparable: Premier / Terrage Midfield – $399

The Orlando Pride

[table id=18 /]

Upsides:

  • Having the “ability to email your tickets to friends and family” is a nice feature for those who can’t make all of the games.
  • If you have the cash, the West Club gets you “a beautiful indoor, air conditioned space with reserved outdoor seating.” In the middle of a Florida summer, it might be worth the nearly $800.
  • Another team with playoff tickets on the brain.
  • A nice-sized supporters area, even if it is standing room only.

Downsides: 

  • Small downside, but if you like to sit up high, the upper part is not open.

What I’d Buy: Sideline E (32) – $240

Orlando City Comparable: Sideline East Field Level – Sold Out

The Portland Thorns

[table id=19 /]

Upsides:

  • For $132 a season, Portland might be the best ticket in the NWSL. Portland is by all accounts a fantastic place to watch a game. Good atmosphere and good seats (no sitting on grass here).
  • Having preseason games included is a nice touch. Portland will be hosting a preseason set of games, and it’s looking like it may become an annual thing.

Downsides: 

  • Highest single ticket premium option. Though they get 13,000+ at every game, so the market will bear it.

What I’d Buy: Touchline Reserved (119) – $275

Portland Timbers Comparable: Sold Out

The Seattle Reign

[table id=20 /]

Upsides:

  • A “Members only Stadium Entrance” can be nice to get in quickly.
  • One of the only clubs to include a scarf with the season ticket package.

Downsides: 

  • Seattle is hampered by where they play when it comes to ticket packages. But over $150 between “Upper Grandstand” and “Premium Grandstand” seems steep.
  • At $750 a person for the 4 person “Pitchside Experience,” it’s at the top end for most of the fieldside tickets.

What I’d Buy: Lower Grandstand – $264

Sky Blue FC

[table id=21 /]

 

Upsides: 

  • Midfield Elite seats get backrests. 
  • If you are a fan of sitting with Supporter Groups, $155 for the base package is one of the lowest prices in the league.
  • Having been to the field before, I can say there aren’t many bad seats. Even in sections 1 and 9 seeing the full field isn’t as much of a problem as it can be in other places.

Downsides: 

  • They don’t list their perks on the website, that I could find.
  • The jump between their highest metal benches and field seats is sharp.

What I’d Buy: Supporters Bleachers (9) – $155

The Washington Spirit

[table id=22 /]

Upsides:

  • The “Standard” covers a lot of the bleachers, so a lot of viewing options.
  • At least if you buy season tickets, the price will remain the same all season and not fluctuate like single game tickets will.

Downsides: 

  • Over $200 for the starter option is not ideal. Less so when it’s on grass.
  • If you want a backrest you have to pay premium price.

What I’d Buy: Standard (108) – $270

Around the World of WoSo: City Remain Champs and Betos Says Goodbye

Posted on by RJ Allen

City goes back-to-back:

Melbourne City and Perth Glory met in the Grand Final of the W-League on Sunday and the match certainly did not disappoint. It drew a record crowd of 4,591 in the stadium and saw two goals by City en route to their second championship. Melbourne City made history by becoming the first-ever team to win back-to-back titles in the W-League.

The opening goal came by way of Jess Fishlock and was assisted by Bev Yanez in stoppage time of the first half. It was a sneaky cut-back cross by Yanez and the Tiny Dragon managed to get on the end of it to give City the lead. Later on in the 72nd minute, Yanez took matters into her own hands, sending a shot/cross that caught Perth keeper Gabrielle Dal Busco off guard. It was the dagger City needed to capture its second title in as many years. Fishlock grabbed Player of the Match to add to the sweetness.

Now five Seattle Reign players can call themselves champions of down under: Fishlock, Yanez, Lu Barnes, Larissa Crummer and Rebekah Stott. No timetable for when they return to Seattle, but you better believe that Seattle is ready for them to bring their game back home.

#SheBelieves training camp roster announced:

Jill Ellis has named her 25-player roster for the upcoming training camp in Orlando prior to the SheBelieves Cup in March. Before heading to Philadelphia for the first game, Ellis will have to cut two players to get the roster down to 23. Notable players missing from the roster are Megan Rapinoe, Kealia Ohai, and Hope Solo.

The roster did include a few players who have been absent due to pregnancy (Amy Rodriguez, FC Kansas City), injury (Meghan Klingenberg, Portland Thorns), or U-team duty (Mallory Pugh, UCLA).  And Ellis has called two newcomers into camp, Sarah Killion (MF, Sky Blue FC) and 16-year-old Brianna Pinto (MF, CASL, committed to UNC), who is the youngest call-up for the USWNT.

The goalkeepers called in brought no surprises. Jane Campbell (Houston Dash), Ashlyn Harris (Orlando Pride), and the current #1, Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars). Ellis also was conservative in her defender call-ups, bringing in familiar names like Ali Krieger (Orlando Pride), Becky Sauerbrunn (FC Kansas City), Julie Johnston (Chicago Red Stars), Kelley O’Hara (Sky Blue FC), and the aforementioned Klingenberg. But she also did call back two newer additions to the full-team, Casey Short (Chicago Red Stars) and Emily Sonnett (Portland Thorns).

The midfield continues to be led by Tobin Heath (Portland Thorns) and Carli Lloyd (Houston Dash), and will be complemented by Morgan Brian (Houston Dash), Allie Long (Portland Thorns), Samantha Mewis (NC Courage), and Lindsey Horan (Portland Thorns). But Ellis has also called up newer midfielders such as 2017 NWSL Draft first round pick Rose Lavelle (Boston Breakers) as well as Killion and Pinto.

But the most dynamic group in my opinion is the forwards. Alex Morgan (Orlando Pride, Olympique Lyonnais), Crystal Dunn (Chelsea L.F.C.), Rodriguez and Christen Press (Chicago Red Stars) each bring speed and experience to the pitch. And they will be joined by Pugh and Lynn Williams (NC Courage) who bring incredible energy and eagerness to the squad.

Betos to Norway:

The former Seattle Reign and Portland Thorns keeper Michelle Betos has announced she has signed to play in the Norwegian Toppserien for Valerenga. Before becoming a fan-favorite in Portland, she played six games in Hope Solo’s absence in 2013. Then Betos sat behind Nadine Angerer and Adrianna Franch before earning the starting spot in 2015-2016.

In Betos’s three years in the Thorns kit, she had a record of 16-10-4, goals against average of 1.27, and earned seven shutouts. She became a very reliable keeper and solidified the defense in Portland, contributing greatly to the team’s drive for the 2016 NWSL Shield, which they won for the first time in club history.

While she was obviously known for her shot-stopping ability, perhaps her most memorable moment came on the offensive end. June 19th of 2015, the Thorns were down to 10 players and down a goal to Kansas City. In the waning seconds of the game, Portland had consecutive corners and on the second attempt Betos went all out to score a phenomenal header to net a point for her team. It was one of the most exciting and unexpected moments of NWSL history, and for her achievement, she was named Player of the Week by the NWSL, and awarded Goalkeeper of the Year for the 2015 season.

Boston brings back familiar face:

The Boston Breakers have announced that Tiffany Weimer will play for the club in 2017. The 33-year-old most recently played for Kvarnsveden in the Damallsvenskan–the top league in Sweden. Weimer played in ten matches, good for 900 minutes. Weimer has plenty of International experience to bring back to Boston after playing in Brazil, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden.

Weimer last played for Boston in 2010, when the team played in the Women’s Professional Soccer League (WPS). Here in the states she has also played for Washington Spirit, FC Kansas City and Portland Thorns. She was a part of the Thorns NWSL Championship team in 2013, the last time she scored a goal and an assist.

Smith’s All-Star list:

Kelly Smith has a send-off game in her honor Feb. 19th at Borehamwood FC, but has announced she won’t be playing due to being three months pregnant. The England and Arsenal Ladies legend will instead be a manager, opposite of Pedro Martinez, and overseeing the past and present players who have agreed to take part in the exhibition match.

The famous Howard Webb has signed on to referee while many other legends on the field have agreed to play, including Heather O’Reilly, Hope Powell, Marieanne Spacey, Ellen White, Casey Stone, and Faye White. Other big names expected to take the field are Jill Scott, Laura Bassett, Rachel Brown, Emily Westwood, and England’s current captain, Steph Houghton. That’s quite a legendary list of names.

Schoepfer to assist Holy Cross:

Former Boston Breaker and Sky Blue forward Katie Schoepfer has left the NWSL for an assistant coaching position at College of the Holy Cross. Holy Cross is a private, Catholic, Jesuit D1 school located in Boston with a student body of under 3,000 undergraduates.

The 28-year-old was selected by Sky Blue in the third round of the 2010 WPS college draft. She played one season in New Jersey before being sent to Boston. Between the two clubs she appeared in 100 games from 2011-2016, recording nine goals in that span.

Schoepfer has a variety of coaching experience since turning pro-Varsity assistant at Buckingham Brown and Nichols High School, and Varsity assistant at Waterford High School. At the club level she spent time coaching for Valeo FC and the Breakers Academy, and for the last three years she has worked as a volunteer at Boston University.

WoSo Remix: Chance The Rapper and Chicago Red Stars

Posted on by RJ Allen

This is the first installment of a three-part series.

*DISCLAIMER*

Yes, this is a women’s soccer article referencing a rap album. Yes, there is foul language. Yes, this is your Parental Advisory.

Chance The Rapper - Coloring Book (cover art)
Chance The Rapper – Coloring Book (cover art)

If you’re from Chicago and are unfamiliar with hip hop or have been living under a rock the last 4 years, Chance The Rapper is an artist from the south side of Chicago who has been receiving tons of critical acclaim for his new release, Coloring Book. If you haven’t heard it yet, go do yourself a favor and download it. It is free.

In Chance’s album, he touches on many of his loves. His Family, his Faith, and his City. Although it holds gospel influences, the tracks throughout the album invite you into his world with native Chicago house music influences and juke beats – all guided by a flow uniquely his own. Seriously, go download it.

 

WHY WOMEN’S SOCCER & HIP HOP?

It’s no secret athletes are into music. They use it to motivate their workouts and hype up game days. Here at Backline Soccer we’re into a whole bunch of cool shit like WoSo, tacos, and music. So when Chance The Rapper dropped that mix-tape, I immediately downloaded it like the loyal Chicagoan I am. It was released back in May, about a month after the National Women’s Soccer League kicked off their historic 4th season.

Similar to athletes, music usually accompanies me whenever I do some kind of writing. So it only seemed appropriate to do a review and remix of the mix-tape that has taken the music world by storm with the squad that literally reps Chicago’s notorious stars on its crest, The Chicago Red Stars.  While going through Coloring Book’s from start to finish, I will be comparing players from this season’s active roster to specific lyrics in its tracks.

ChicagoRedStars

*DISCLAIMER 2*

AGAIN. This album contains a Parental Advisory for Explicit Content. So chill the fuck out. Also, not all players will be used in this WoSo Remix to the album. Mostly active starters and players from this season to date, with some honorable mentions.

CHANCE THE RAPPER – COLORING BOOK

ALL WE GOT (FT. Kanye West & Chicago Children’s Choir) – “AND WE BACK.”  In this track Chance lets us know he’s arrived and yet he’s never really left us. He touches on the moments in his life at the release of his album and introduces the gospel influences we will hear throughout the album.

The lyric “They don’t give nothing away, you gotta fight for your way” will be remixed for Chicago Red Stars Goal Keeper Alyssa Naeher. Granted the ‘they’ in this line can also be attributed to Chicago’s backline as well, however in the event that they do give ‘something’ away, Naeher is still there to be reckoned with. Just try and fight your way past her.

 

NO PROBLEM (FT. Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz) – “You don’t want ZERO problems big fella.”  This song was the first track to get a music video to accompany it after the album released (Angels was first). In it, Chance calls out the major music labels who failed in their efforts to deny him access to the artists he wanted to collaborate with, and his desire to put out the music he wanted to release – for free.

The hypnotizing hook “You don’t want no problems, want no problems with me” will be remixed for Chicago Red Stars captain, Christen Press. Press has been referred to as the main component of Chicago’s offensive presence on the pitch. Few goalkeepers want to be caught one on one with her on the pitch. Before she got named to the Olympic roster she left the team with four goals, 27 shots on goal, and 42 total shots. You don’t want ZERO problems with Press.

 

SUMMER FRIENDS (FT. Jeremih & Francis & The Lights) – “Summer friends don’t stay.”  A very somber track that has Chance reminiscing on friends and lives lost in his south side community of Chatham, specifically in summer time in Chicago. In remembering past summers, he acknowledges how they have shaped his present. He collaborates with fellow Chicagoan Jeremih who sings an outro on the track expressing the importance of remaining loyal with those who came up through the trials with you.

The song hits home due to the truth it holds. Some Chicagoland communities have a history with violence. It’s not hard to find someone directly affected by it somehow. It is a sensitive subject that should be discussed not glorified. Although difficult to choose a specific lyric from this very moving song, the line “Oh I used to kill em with the long hair” stands out since Chance has referenced his long natural hair in prior songs.

This line will be remixed for Julie Johnston and Samantha Johnson. Along with their fantastic defensive and leadership skills, they both have a strong hair and fashion game. They both do a great job of reaching out and working with youth as well. They have both formed a strong bond as the main center backs of the defense. Johnson has done a great job of filling as the voice of the backline during Johnston’s Olympic duty absence. And let’s not forget the recent animated short where Johnston tells us how she used to ‘kill em with the long hair.’

 

D.R.A.M SINGS SPECIAL – This track is the shortest on Chance’s album. It clocks in at one minute and 42 seconds. It features D.R.A.M and Elle Varner singing a very melodic verse repeatedly, serving as a bit of a lullaby interlude for the album. The track is literally five lines repeated twice: “You are very special. You’re special too. Everyone is special. This I know is true, when I look at you.”

Due to the short length of this track and its minimal yet significant lyrics, this whole interlude will be remixed for Sarah Gorden.

Drafted second overall for the Red Stars in the NWSL 2016 draft, she hasn’t seen much playing time on the pitch this year, logging minutes in only two games so far this season. However, that doesn’t reflect her great work ethic or stop her from working on her game. It’s not easy being a professional athlete and a mom on an NWSL salary, but somehow she’s doing it. We all know she’s special and it’s a matter of time before we see her on the pitch again.

Honorable Mention: Lori Chalupny. Long time Red Star and retired captain, Chups’s jersey was recently retired by the team, so we know how special she is to the Red Stars and Chicagoland fans. Check out her jersey retirement ceremony here.

 

BLESSINGS – “The praises go up. The blessings come down.” A break out song from Coloring Book, Chance literally utilizes this track as his praise song. By remembering God throughout his journey in music, Chance knows that his blessing will come. The refrain that Jamila Woods sings echoes throughout the track like a holy reprise. It is that lyric that we will remix for Casey Short.

Short has been on the Red Stars’ radar for years. Initially drafted fifth overall by Boston in 2013, she suffered a season ending injury. Chicago picked up her rights for 2014, but Short had another setback due to injury. After fighting her way back to playing form, she had a successful 27 appearances for Avaldsnes in Norway in 2015. Finally, in 2016, we saw her long-awaited arrival to Chicago.

When you put in the work, you reap the rewards. Her long journey has seen plenty of adversity, but Short has now become a staple in Chicago’s back-five, a defense that includes National Team regulars like Julie Johnston and Alyssa Naeher. Coupled with fellow outside back Arin Gilliland, she is one part of a lethal duo. Ultimately, it’s not just Short, but the fans who are blessed as well.

 

 

We will continue this WoSo Remix as a series. Coloring Book Tracks 6 through 10 and 11 through 14 will be covered in separate parts. Stay tuned!

 

This was originally posted on 

Around the World of WoSo: W-League Finals; Trio of Canadians Retire

Posted on by RJ Allen

Perth Glory Takes Care of Business:

All season Perth has been entertaining to watch but they didn’t hold back one bit, putting five past Sydney FC this weekend to advance to the Finals.  Even though Sydney scored first thanks to Kyah Simon, Perth controlled the rest of the game after that. Big time players were making big time plays, including American Vanessa DiBernardo who scored the opening goal on a penalty kick in the 28th minute.

The first half ended in a draw but Perth was out for Glory in the second. DiBernardo was at it again; this time her deflected cross found the back of the net for the lead in the 58th minute. Sydney was having trouble containing DiBernardo and she was running free and managed to complete her hat-trick in the 77th minute. It was a wonderful display of power and precision all afternoon to guide her team to a win. Two more goals were scored by Rosie Sutton and Shawn Billam in the last 15 minutes of play.

Sydney was clearly no match for DiBernardo and company, who will meet Melbourne City in the Grand Final on Sunday in Perth.

Melbourne City Back in Final:

A solid Melbourne defense against a terrific attack in Canberra United – that’s what was in store for fans who were tuned in to watch the second W-League semifinal on Sunday. It was a similar scene for both teams, who competed in last years’ semifinals, with City moving on while Canberra lost to Sydney. Now Melbourne is in the finals for the second time in as many seasons.

It was a match that needed extra time; City got a goal in the 107th minute from the tiny dragon herself, Jess Fishlock. A poor clearance off a corner gave her the golden opportunity and she didn’t waste it – driving it home for the game-winner. Melbourne managed to hold off golden boot winner Ashleigh Sykes and that powerful offense for 122 minutes. It was an impressive feat considering Canberra were held scoreless just one time in the last 12 games by Sydney Wanderers in week 11.

 

NWSL Historic TV deal:

The National Womens Soccer League has reached new heights in 2017. A new deal has been agreed to, but not just any deal; a historic TV one. This is the first multi-year deal for the league, with NWSL partnering with A+E for three years. Other details include creating NWSL Media – which will be a league app for streaming, and a re-designed website with A+E managing all digital assets.

This is a massive upgrade for everyone involved and an encouraging partnership with A+E/Lifetime, who reach 81% of homes in America. There will be a game of the week every Saturday afternoon on Lifetime, as well as playoffs and the championship. That’s 22 games on TV, and for everyone that spent the last 4 years watching their favorite teams on an unreliable YouTube Stream, this is certainly exciting.

Canada (Finally) Celebrates Olympic Bronze:

Back in the summer of 2016, Canada beat Brazil to claim a Bronze medal, becoming the first Canadian summer Olympic team to go back-to-back in over a century. To celebrate they played a friendly against Mexico this past weekend at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada. With 22,508 fans in attendance, both teams put on a show.

Canada struck first in 14th minute when Deanne Rose had the confidence to go at the backline of Mexico, eventually finishing with her left. But just two minutes later Mexico were level, thanks to a neat strike from Nancy Antonio. Young talent Janine Beckie scored the final two goals for Canada just before halftime, giving them a two-goal lead. Mexico would fight back and add another goal in the 59th minute when Kaitlyn Johnson found herself wide open on the back post to tuck it in. That would be all the goals needed to finish this one as Canada gave the fans plenty more to cheer about on the day.

It was a game that was much overdue but I’m glad the players got the chance to celebrate with the fans.

Canadian Trio Retire:

Three players who have helped shape the Canadian program into a top 10 team have announced their International retirements and were honored this past weekend. For more than a decade, Rhian Wilkinson, Melissa Tancredi, and Marie-Eve Nault were tremendous players for Canada, playing in a combined 375 games at the senior level.

Wilkinson played in 180 games, (first appearing in 2003) scoring seven goals as a strong defender. She played in three Pan American games (2003, 2007, 2011), and two Olympic games in 2012 and 2016; capturing Bronze in both.

Melissa Tancredi was known for her physical play and she gave her all in every one of her 124 appearances for her country. She debuted in 2004 against Jamaica during Olympic Qualifying. She was a constant threat up top, scoring 27 goals in her career for Canada. Tancredi played in the Pan American games in 2007 and was part of the 2012/2016 that won Olympic Bronze.

Marie-Eve Nault first appeared in January of 2004 and was a steady defender for Canada. She earned 71 caps and played in some of the biggest games in Canadian history, including the Four Nations Tournament (2004), the 2011 FIFA Womens World Cup, and the 2012 Olympics (Bronze).

Jakobsson Tears ACL:

Sofia Jakobsson suffered one of the worst injuries in sports, tearing her left Anterior Cruciate Ligament – simply referred to as the ACL. The Swedish forward who currently plays for Montpellier in the French Division 1 Feminine was at a training session during the injury on Feb. 1. The 26-year-old has appeared in 61 games for Sweden, scoring 11 goals in that span.

Jakobsson debuted for Sweden in 2011, appearing in the World Cup that summer. She also played in the 2012 London Olympic Games, UEFA Womens EURO in 2013, the 2015 Algarve Cup, and most recently the 2016 Olympic Games, winning the silver. She has become an important piece to Sweden remaining a top 10 team.

No word yet on her timetable to return but typically with this type of injury, athletes are expected to be out minimum six months. With this heartbreaking news, Jakobsson will miss out on EURO 2017 with Sweden.

Around the World of WoSo: Crummer to Seattle and Canberra takes Prem

Posted on by RJ Allen

Seattle Sign Crummer:

Laura Harvey has signed Australian Larissa Crummer, who is 21 years old and has emerged from a defender to talented forward since turning pro in 2013. Her previous club experiences were with Sydney FC and Brisbane Roar before signing on with Melbourne City in 2015.

Crummer’s profile went up significantly when she scored City’s first ever goal in the W-League in September of 2015. Crummer won the Golden boot for that season, scoring 11 goals, three ahead of former Reign great, Kim Little. The young forward also made her Matilda debut in the summer of 2015, appearing twice in the Women’s World Cup in Canada. Crummer will be a nice addition to the Seattle forward group that has vet Bev Yanez and two rookies in Katie Johnson and Arielle Ship.

Adelaide Shock Sydney:

Sixth place Adelaide United spoiled Sydney’s chance of finishing first and grabbing the premiership this past weekend. Two players who made sure of it were Adriana Jones and Sofia Huerta, who each scored to put Sydney away in a convincing 5-2 match. All season, these two have been almost unstoppable, with Jones tallying nine goals and two assists while Huerta grabbed eight goals with five assists.

With the win, Adelaide finish the regular season out of the top-four. But they should be proud of how they finished the season, absolutely energized and scoring 17 goals the last three games. Meanwhile, Sydney falls to third place but will be in the semifinals this upcoming weekend. While the Premiership isn’t up for grabs anymore, the Championship still is. They must re-focus and re-group if they want to beat Perth on Sunday.

Henry Loaned to PSG:

Portland Thorns midfielder Amandine Henry has announced her loan to French giant, Paris Saint-Germain this past weekend. In her brief time with Portland in 2016, Henry played in nine matches, grabbing one assist and helping the Thorns to the NWSL Shield.

Henry has plenty of familiarity with the Division 1 Feminine league, as she spent nine successful seasons there prior to coming to the NWSL. Now the 27 year-old moves on to PSG for six months, joining the likes of Shirley Cruz, Veronica Boquete, Marie-Laure Delie, Erika and Laura Georges. Last season PSG finished second to Lyon, who once again will be serious challengers for the title.

Canberra Wins Third Premiership:

Canberra United have secured its third Premier in program history. The best team in the regular season with seven wins, two draws, and three losses, they scored the most goals in 12 games, accumulating 33 goals in that span, with a 2.75 average per game. United also have the Golden Boot winner in Ashleigh Sykes, who scored 12 goals and added two assists along the way.

Ending the regular season with a 5-1 thrashing of Melbourne Victory pushed Canberra to first, while keeping Victory in last place and ending a disappointing season to say the least. United still have unfinished business as they meet Melbourne City for a semifinal match on Saturday.

Riley to NC:

The North Carolina Courage (formerly known as Western New York Flash) are the newest team in the NWSL, but they are also the defending champions. The coach that led them was Paul Riley, who previously coached the Portland Thorns (2013-2015) but only managed to make the playoffs once in those seasons. Riley led the Flash to a championship in 2016 which surprised many, so it’s no wonder the club wants him back.

The NC Courage are bringing back most of the roster from last year, including Sam Mewis, Lynn Williams and Jess McDonald, all who were major influences for WNYF winning the title. It may be a new club with a new location, but to have so much of the same personnel and now coach has to be exciting for the fans, old and new.

Dydasco Re-signs with Spirit:

The Washington Spirit finally have some good news to share with fans, as they have announced that Caprice Dydasco will be back for the 2017 season. Dydasco went down with a knee injury in the NWSL Championship game last October and has since been recovering and preparing to get back on the field as soon as possible.

The 23 year-old defender played in 14 games last season for the Spirit, starting 12 of those. Taken in the third round of the 2015 NWSL College Draft out of UCLA, Dydasco has shown improvements in each of the last 2 seasons. She has worked her way into the starting eleven, and with the crazy off-season Washington are having, Dydasco could be an important piece when she returns.

Around the World of WoSo: HAO to Arsenal; Pride Trade Hat-Trick

Posted on by RJ Allen

HAO Commits to Being a Gunner:

Long-time United States Women’s National Team midfielder Heather O’Reilly has announced she will be playing in the Women’s Super League (FA WSL 1), England’s top league for women’s soccer. Simply known as HAO, she recently retired from international play, but at just 32 she still has plenty left to give to the sport. O’Reilly played college ball at UNC, won three Olympic gold medals, was crowned World Cup champion in 2015, and accumulated 231 appearances over 15 years for the National Team.

The one thing left to try would be a move overseas, to experience something new and to have a different kind of challenge. The club she chose is Arsenal Ladies, a club that has a stellar reputation and a few connections to the NWSL here in the states. For one, they are the most decorated club in the WSL, earning 43 titles since the debut in 1987. Secondly, they’ve had legendary coaches and players throughout their history; including Kelly Smith, Katie Chapman, Faye White and current Seattle Reign coach Laura Harvey.

With the addition of HAO, Arsenal once again has an impressive roster to compete for the championship. They have plenty of star power to chose from; Fara Williams, Jodie Taylor, Danielle van De Donk, Asisat Oshoala, and Kim Little. HAO brings an explosive element on the wing, relentless energy, and unmatched passion. I’m sure fans cannot wait to get the season started.

Sky Blue Lands Corboz:

Daphne Corboz has played in the WSL for Manchester City since graduating Georgetown in 2014. She earned 15 starts and tallied two goals for the club. The young midfielder recently won the league with City in 2016, the first major trophy for the club since joining the WSL in 2014.

Corboz is the latest addition to a talented Sky Blue squad that boasts Kelley O’Hara, Christine Rampone, Natasha Kai, Leah Galton, Raquel Rodriguez and Sam Kerr. In the College Draft, Sky Blue got some more serious young talent, including USC duo Kayla Mills and Miranda Freeman. They later chose Kailen Sheridan out of Clemson, and Madison Tiernan from Rutgers.

Corboz adds another technical component to the midfield along with a creative fire that is always burning. I think Sky Blue could finally return to the top of the table in 2017 after a three-year absence.

W-League Doesn’t Disappoint:

In last week’s fixtures, plenty was at stake as it nears the end of the regular season; premiership still undecided, home advantage, a spot in the top four, and momentum going forward.

The top four are as follows; Sydney FC, Canberra United, Perth Glory and Melbourne City FC. The weekend saw Sydney lose to Newcastle, Canberra dropped by the Western Sydney Wanderers, Glory lose to Adelaide, and City win a crucial game against Brisbane.

As far as points go, the top three are secured, but Melbourne City needs to draw or win to officially grab the fourth spot. Sitting in fifth are Newcastle with 15 points, so they need a win to give themselves a chance.

One player who has stood out this season is Sofia Huerta, who plays for the Chicago Red Stars in the NWSL March-November. Last week she scored a hat trick to lead Adelaide United to a wild 10-2 win over Sydney Wanderers. In just 11 games in the W-League Huerta has tallied seven goals and four assists, leading Adelaide United to second in the league in total goals scored with 26. Chicago fans will look forward to her return stateside in the next few months.

Americans Head Overseas:

Two recent graduates and collegiate stars here in the states have announced they will play overseas. If you follow NCAA DI soccer you should be familiar with Savannah Jordan and Lindsey Harris. Both were crucial to their respective team’s success, especially this year.

First up is Jordan, who attended Florida all four years, playing in 94 games, recording 81 goals (23 game-winning) and grabbing 27 assists as well. The exciting forward has blazing speed and is a joy to watch on the ball — combine that with excellent finishing ability and she is a quality player. Jordan has signed with Glasgow City FC, the top club team in Scotland. City is the defending champions, a 10-year reign that is impressive and has earned them plenty of UEFA Champions League experience.

Another top player to find a home overseas is UNC grad Harris. She was UNC’s first choice goalkeeper her senior year after rotating the previous three years. Harris is known for making big saves, similar to another former UNC and now NWSL star with Orlando, Ashlyn Harris. Apart from a few keepers, UNC is primarily known for producing excellent talent in field players, but Lindsey Harris made a name for herself in those three years. Harris has signed with Iceland side FH for the upcoming season. FH have won the league once in 2011 and were runners-up the last two years.

DMath to Seattle (This is Not a Typo):

For much of this NWSL offseason, Washington Spirit has been the front-runner for headlines due to all the high-profile departures since November. Six key players for the Spirit will be elsewhere come April; Ali Krieger, Crystal Dunn, Christine Nairn, Megan Oyster, Estefania Banini, and now Diana Matheson. The Spirit have sent Matheson to the Seattle Reign. In return, they have acquired the rights to Arielle Shipp, who was Seattle’s third-round draft pick out of UC Berkeley.  

Commonly referred to as DMath, she spent four years in Washington, helping them to the playoffs the last three years; most recently to a Championship title match. Matheson is the Spirit’s all-time leading goal scorer with 23 goals and 12 assists in 67 appearances. The tiny and reliable Canadian midfielder will be re-united with another former Washington player in Christine Nairn.

This move will certainly help Seattle’s midfield, which saw Kim Little and Keelin Winters depart in the offseason. This addition along with Nairn, Jess Fishlock, Beverly Yanez, and Megan Rapinoe, makes me wonder, can the Reign return to the top four?

Orlando Wheeling and Dealing:

Tom Sermanni has made not one, not two, but three trades within the last week. In his latest attempt to avoid the 2018 draft, the Orlando Pride coach has sent a first and fourth-round pick to Portland in exchange for recent UConn grad and talented forward Rachel Hill. Sermanni’s second move was picking up Houston forward Chioma Ubogagu for a third round pick. His last and biggest trade was sending second-year player Sam Witteman to NC Courage for Australian defender Alanna Kennedy.

The Pride’s main agenda in their second year seems to be centered on the forwards and defenders. To be honest, it’s a bit confusing considering the midfield is the weakest position in my opinion. Nonetheless, they’ve certainly got my early vote for one of the best defenses in the league after adding Krieger and Kennedy this off-season to complement Steph Catley and Laura Alleway. Certainly, only time will tell how well these trades will work out, but Sermanni seems to know what he’s doing.