Tag: Sky Blue FC

Off the Bench with Backline Soccer: 2017, Week 1

Posted on by RJ Allen

Welcome to our first installment of “Off the Bench,” the latest Backline Soccer weekly series.

Backline Soccer Recap:

This last week on Backline Soccer, we posted all ten of our 2017 NWSL team previews. If you haven’t yet read them, please visit our site to check them out and let us know what you think!

NWSL Week One Game Recaps:

What a great first weekend back for the NWSL we had! Let’s dive straight into a recap of the five matches we had this past weekend.

 

Game 1: Houston Dash 2 vs Chicago Red Stars 0

Houston Dash record: 1-0-0
Chicago Red Stars record: 0-1-0
Attendance : 4,484

First up, to kick off the 2017 NWSL season, the Houston Dash took on the Chicago Red Stars at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston. Kealia Ohai opened up the scoring giving the 2017 season its first goal in the 15th minute. Alyssa Naeher stuck to her line a little too long and Ohai made her pay. Then, in the 80′ minute, Rachel Daly sent a rocket past Naeher, for goal number two, and was featured on ESPN’s SportsCenter for it!

 

Game 2: Portland Thorns 2 vs Orlando Pride 0

Portland Thorns record: 1-0-0
Orlando Pride record: 0-1-0
Attendance : 16,145

The first Lifetime Game of the Week started shortly after the Houston game, with the Portland Thorns taking on the Orlando Pride. It was a pretty even game for most of the match. The 24th minute saw a killer diving header from Ashlyn Harris to keep the Thorns from scoring but an unfortunate handball on Alanna Kennedy in the 32nd minute led to a converted PK by Nadia Nadim. Christine Sinclair netted home the final goal to seal the Thorns’ win in the 67th minute.

 

Game 3: Washington Spirit 0 vs North Carolina Courage 1

Washington Spirit record: 0-1-0
North Carolina Courage record: 1-0-0
Attendance : 2,400

Next up were the Washington Spirit and North Carolina Courage, in their inaugural match. McCall Zerboni scored the game’s lone goal–and the first in NC Courage history–in the 19th minute but it was Spirit goalkeeper Stephanie Labbé who put on a spectacular performance that kept the Courage from scoring any more after that. With one spectacular save after another, Labbé demonstrated to everyone just what an asset she will be for the Spirit this season. Unfortunately for the Spirit, Joanna Lohman went down in the first half with what was confirmed on Monday as a torn ACL in her left knee.

 

Game 4: Seattle Reign 1 vs Sky Blue FC 1

Seattle Reign record: 0-0-1
Sky Blue FC record: 0-0-1
Attendance : 3,521

The final match of the day was between the Seattle Reign and Sky Blue FC, which ended up being the game of PKs. A foul committed by a Sky Blue player saw Megan Rapinoe convert a PK in the 56nd minute. Then in the 62nd minute, a foul by a Reign player saw Sarah Killion bury a PK to level the game. Seattle Reign goalkeeper, Haley Kopmeyer, who had a player of the week worthy game as well on Saturday, almost stopped the PK taken by Killion.

 

Game 5: FC Kansas City 2 v. Boston Breakers 0

FC Kansas City record: 1-0-0
Boston Breakers record: 0-1-0
Attendance : 3,340

The final game of the first weekend back for the NWSL between FC Kansas City and the Boston Breakers saw the return of Amy Rodriguez and Sydney Leroux to the pitch after maternity leave. Leroux kicked off the party early with her first goal in over a year in the 7th minute. Amy Rodriguez decided she wanted to be part of the goal scoring party too and netted herself one in the 48th minute. Then in the 58th minute, we all held our breath as Rodriguez went down with a non-contact injury and was stretchered off shortly after. Official confirmation has not been given but it was reported to be the left leg which was then immobilized with a brace.

The weekend ended with the Dash, Thorns, Courage, and FCKC all taking home 3 points, while Sky Blue and the Reign each left with a point. Held winless and pointless in the first weekend were the Red Stars, Pride, Spirit, and Breakers.

The Scouting Report:

The Scouting Report went live last night with the first official NWSL weekly TSR recap of all NWSL games from the weekend. Make sure to tune in every Monday at 8pm EST to catch our weekly series!

You can find last night’s TSR here:

Come back next week for the next edition of Off the Bench!

They’re Gonna be Good, Just Trust Me: A Look at Sky Blue FC in 2017

Posted on by RJ Allen

Sky Blue FC was a study in contradictions in 2016. They came out with a big win over the Seattle Reign at Memorial Stadium before a series of draws and losses that left them 2-3-2 by the end of May. Finishing in 7th place with a record of 7-8-5was obviously not what the team had in mind on opening day in 2016. But the team was able to grow during their first year under Head Coach Christy Holly in a way that flies partly under the radar given their 7th place finish. Add in some strong draft picks in the 2017 draft and the fifth season is pretty positive for the New Jersey team.

The Attack

The Sky Blue attack underwent some key upgrades during the off-season. First, Sky Blue welcomes midfielder Daphne Corboz back to their team after a stint in England where she played for Manchester City Women. The Georgetown Hoya was a top attacking player in college and actually drafted by SBFC in the 2015 NWSL College Draft. After gaining considerable experience in England, Corboz could be in for a big season as she makes her NWSL debut.

In a move some fans have been dying to see, US National Team defender Kelley O’Hara is finally being listed at forward on the Sky Blue roster. A top-scorer at Stanford, O’Hara will be able to step in and fill gaps in the defense when called upon, but having her attention more focused on the attack in 2017 is a big win for the team. While O’Hara is an accomplished defender, having won an Olympic gold as a starting left back for the USWNT, her talents have always lent themselves more toward the attack. With two first round draft picks added to the defense O’Hara is finally able to be moved higher up the pitch.

Then there’s Raquel Rodriguez, the sophomore star fresh off her 2016 NWSL Rookie of the Year award, who has the benefit of a full season under her belt. The young midfielder and Costa Rican international’s experience, both in the league and in international play, can only benefit the New Jersey team that came in closer to the bottom than anyone should be comfortable with. During the last international break before the NWSL season kicks off, Rodriguez will be with her national team in Japan. If the Japan WNT isn’t a great warm up for the NWSL season, I’m not sure what is. Her ability to keep on her feet and not be pushed off the ball is something from 2016 I am hoping to see improved in 2017. Some of that is adapting from a college game to the pros. If she can improve upon her 2016 play she could be a staple in the midfield for seasons to come. 

Perhaps the biggest element in Sky Blue’s 2017 attacking side is a healthy Sam Kerr. After the season Kerr had in the W-League during the NWSL’s off-season, it isn’t hard to see why she is regarded as one of the best forwards in the world with the ability to score from nearly anywhere and a fearless approach to taking shots. Her time in the W-League showed that she is finally fully fit and healthy after some foot issues over the last year or so, something that should strike fear into the hearts of defenders all over the NWSL. If she can stay healthy for the season, Kerr will likely be in the running for the NWSL Golden Boot with the way she managed five goals in only nine games while battling back from injury in 2016.

And still, these are just four of the attacking players Holly will have to pick from when putting together his XI. Sarah Killion, Taylor Lytle, Nikki Stanton, Kim DeCesare, Leah Galton, Maya Hayes, and Tasha Kai–when she returns–could all see significant playing time, among others.

The Defense

One of the issues that plagued Sky Blue the most in 2016 was the way they continued to give up easy goals. And their lack of defensive cohesion meant that their attacking play could never quite count on having the breathing room necessary at times to make plays and find the net. 

But this year, Sky Blue’s back five will have a drastically different look. To start, Kristen Grubka is no longer with the team and Kelley O’Hara will be playing as a forward. The two holes will likely be filled with draft picks Mandy Freeman and Kayla Mills. With a backline composed of Mills, Rampone, Freeman, and Skroski, Sky Blue has a much better chance of staying in the game and giving the attack help when needed. 

Both Freeman and Mills won a NCAA title in 2016 with USC before being drafted to Sky Blue. Freeman has the ability to step into the midfield if needed to give Holly some flexibility in terms of depth while Mills is a top defender who is able to get forward when needed and help on the attack. Skroski had a very nice 2016, playing in 20 games and scoring once. I’ve written extensively on Rampone’s ability in the past and expect her to challenge, if not flat out win, NWSL Defender of the Year for 2017. Domi Richardson and Erin Simon will be the likely subs on defense leaving the team a bit thin there, which makes it likely that Holly will need O’Hara to step in if injuries happen. But on paper, the backline seems primed for success this year. The only question there seems to be how thin they are if the injury bug hits. 

The goalkeeping situation looks better in 2017 than it did in 2016. Kailen Sheridan, a Canadian international, was drafted by the team and made a Federation player, while Caroline Casey is back with the team for her sophomore season. Additionally, Caroline Stanley is no longer with the team.

In my estimation, Sheridan will win the goalkeeper battle. Sheridan has some limited international experience with Canada and has demonstrated good technique and solid skill both at the international level and the collegiate level, where she played for Clemson. Honestly, she gives Sky Blue what might be their best option since Brittany Cameron left after 2015. Casey, while serving as the backup so far this preseason, looks to have improved over her 2016 form. I don’t expect the goalkeeping fight to be a long one but for the first few games, there might be a little back and forth between the two keepers.

The Intangibles

Though admittedly biased, someone who follows the team as closely as Jen Muller – one of the leaders of Sky Blue’s Cloud 9 supporter group – has noticed a change from 2016 to 2017:

“I’m much more optimistic at this point as opposed to this time last year. With a full year under his belt, Holly has been able to continue the culture shift in and around the club. It’s obviously still a young team and there are some question marks, but the veteran leadership of Christie and Kelley combined with the talent that’s returning (plus off-season pickup Corboz) and a strong draft class, I think they have a legitimate shot at making a run for a playoff spot.”

Sky Blue is a team trying to build a brand new culture into their franchise. And while there is no statistic that can measure heart, no metric that can quantify how willing a player is to play for the person next to them, Coach Christy Holly is using his own measures to find a team that looks to leave nothing on the pitch and rallies around a sense of pride in each other’s accomplishments.

It’s hard to predict where SBFC will land come the end of the season this year. Harder than most because while they had turn over, they didn’t add or lose a ton of players. Additionally, the players they kept have suffered from cold streaks in the past. They could click and take off, landing themselves in the playoffs and shocking those who have decidedly lackluster expectations. Or they could persist as they have for the last few seasons, good but not great, able to hang with better-placed teams to a point but giving up a goal or two due to unforced errors and mental lapses.

For all the question marks with the team, for all the doubts as you might have and the team’s history of consistent effort that just quite misses the final mark, I only have one thing left to say.

They’re gonna be good, just trust me.

2017 Sky Blue FC

GOALKEEPERS (2): Caroline Casey, Kailen Sheridan (FED-CAN)

DEFENDERS (6): Mandy Freeman, Kayla Mills, Christie Rampone, Domi Richardson, Erin Simon, Erica Skroski

MIDFIELDERS (6): Daphne Corboz, Sarah Killion, Taylor Lytle, Raquel Rodriguez (INTL-CRC), Nikki Stanton, Madison Tiernan

FORWARDS (7): Kim DeCesare, Leah Galton (INTL-ENG), Maya Hayes, Tasha Kai (OOM, D45), Sam Kerr (INTL-AUS), McKenzie Meehan, Kelley O’Hara (FED-USA)

U.S. Soccer Announces NWSL Allocations for 2017

Posted on by RJ Allen

After yesterday’s exciting news that a new 5-year CBA agreement had been reached, the USSF followed today with the names of those players to be allocated in the NWSL this season. 22 players across nine teams in the league will have their salary paid for by US Soccer, an arrangement that benefits both sides as players are able to continue playing competitively outside of their National Team duties and teams are able to feature players they might otherwise be unable to afford in a league where the minimum salary is still below $20,000.

Boston Breakers

After the loss of Whitney Engen, their sole US player from last year, fans weren’t sure who would be allocated to the team in 2017. But when Rose Lavelle was selected first overall in the 2017 NWSL College Draft earlier this year, it was a pretty sure bet that the rookie, who already has two caps at the senior level, would find her name on the list.

 

Chicago Red Stars

It’s no surprise to us here at Backline Soccer to see defender Casey Short’s name on this list. The newly allocated player has earned several caps on the senior team during the off-season. Her performance on Chicago’s backline in the 2016 season earned her a well-deserved call-up to the USWNT and she’s continued to put in her Chicago-style work ethic to the test on the international stage.

Other allocated players (no surprises here) are defender Julie Ertz (nee Johnston), goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, and forward Christen Press.

https://twitter.com/chicagoredstars/status/850003520153681920

 

FC Kansas City

FCKC’s three allocated players include recently returned Amy Rodriguez and Sydney Leroux in addition to one of our favorites, Becky Sauerbrunn. Leroux and Rodriguez took a year off from the USWNT to give birth to their sons and once back in form, we expect them to slip right back into the US’s attack.

 

Houston Dash

Carli Lloyd and Morgan Brian make up the US allocations for the Houston Dash, and with good reason. The two make up key pieces of the USWNT’s midfield, and Lloyd is a formidable element in the attack. Even with Lloyd over helping the FAWSL’s Manchester City in their quest to win this year’s UEFA Champion’s League and Brian recovering from a minor injury that’ll keep her from the Russian friendlies this month, the Houston Dash look to make their name in the table this season, and these two will be big contributors in that drive.

 

NC Courage

In the Courage’s inaugural season, midfielder Samantha Mewis and forward, and last year’s NWSL Golden Boot winner, Lynn Williams, have been allocated. Mewis has been a steady contributor to the team since her first cap at the 2014 Algarve Cup, and was one of Western New York Flash’s allocations for the 2016 season. Williams is newly allocated after her stellar 2016 season earned her a call-up to the USWNT, where she’s notched two goals in seven appearances.

 

Orlando Pride

In their second season, the Pride have been allocated some of the USWNT’s best defensive and offensive players. Goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris and defender Ali Krieger have a long and successful history on the backline together, playing at the international and league level, and Orlando’s backline will be a tough one to crack with those two directing the defense. And Alex Morgan may be away in France on a temporary loan to Olympique Lyonnais, but the long-time USWNT forward scored four goals in fifteen appearances for the Pride last season and will be in prime shape to net even more in 2017.

 

Portland Thorns

The Portland Thorns once again lead the list with five allocated players. Between defenders Emily Sonnett and Meghan Klingenberg, and midfielders Tobin Heath, Allie Long, and Lindsey Horan, Mark Parsons’ powerhouse should be a contender for the Shield again this season, especially considering that the allocated players won’t be absent for large chunks of the season due to National Team duties.  If they can all stay healthy, the Thorns should be right up there at the end of the season, making a play for the Championship.

 

Seattle Reign

For the first time in their history, the Seattle Reign have only one allocated player from the US. But considering that player is Megan Rapinoe, they’re probably just fine with that. Back to full-strength this season after an injury suffered on National Team duty, and then the trip to Rio, kept her off the Memorial Stadium pitch for most of 2016, the Reign will be eager get Rapinoe back in their mix and work their way back up the table after last year’s disappointing absence from the post-season.

 

Sky Blue FC

Kelley O’Hara is this year’s lone allocation from the USWNT in the Sky Blue kit. The forward-turned-defender has been converted back to the attack this season by coach Christy Holly, and so it might almost seem there are two O’Haras in the world of WOSO at the moment–the USWNT’s #5 defender and Sky Blue’s #19 forward. But no matter who she’s playing for or in what position, it’s always exciting to watch O’Hara on the pitch.

 

Washington Spirit

Maybe you’ve noticed that the Washington Spirit didn’t tweet out any allocation news this morning? For the first time in their NWSL history, the Spirit don’t have any players allocated to their roster. They lost one in 2015 when Ashlyn Harris was traded to the Orlando Pride in the Expansion Draft, and then two just this past off-season, when owner Bill Lynch and coach Jim Gabarra traded Ali Krieger to Orlando in exchange for a higher position in the distribution ranking order, and forward Crystal Dunn announced she’d signed with the FAWSL’s Chelsea Ladies. After their franchise-history making season, and a heart-breaking loss at the Championship match in Houston, the Spirit are putting all their eggs in new talent acquired through the 2017 Draft or off-season trades. And, it could pay off. At the very least, their season will give us all a look at some potential future USWNT call-ups if their performance on the pitch grabs our attention.

Down to 25: NWSL Preseason Rosters Updated

Posted on by RJ Allen

Teams across the league released updated preseason rosters, cutting down from their 30+ player lists to just 25. Just an FYI if, like us, you find yourself counting names, a few teams will have more than 25 players listed, due to listing selected players as “Out of Market” or NYR (not-yet-returned) at the moment–these are players who have not reported for one reason or another. For example, Julie Ertz, nee Johnston, who is currently on her honeymoon, and Natasha Kai, who is recovering from a late-season injury.  Also, most teams still contain a number of players listed as NRI, or non-rostered invitee.

The date for final season rosters is still several weeks away, but already it’s clear how some teams are shaping up their squad in anticipation of the fifth season.

By April 10 the rosters must be between 18 and 20.

Boston Breakers

Did not release updated roster, currently at or under 25 players:

Goalkeepers (3): Sammy Jo Prudhomme, Abby Smith, Libby Stout

Defenders (7): Allysha Chapman (FP-CAN), Brooke Elby, Amanda Frisbie, Julie King, Megan Oyster, Kylie Strom, Christen Westphal

Midfielders (6): Morgan Andrews (Draft Pick), Amanda DaCosta, Rose Lavelle (Draft Pick), Angela Salem, Tiffany Weimer, Rosie White

Forwards (6): Hayley Dowd (Draft Pick), Natasha Dowie, Emilie Haavi, Adriana Leon (FP-CAN), Ifeoma Onumonu (Draft Pick), Margaret Purce (Draft Pick)

 

Chicago Red Stars

Goalkeepers (2): Michele Dalton, Alyssa Naeher (FP-USA)

Defenders (6): Arin Gilliland, Sarah Gorden, Samantha Johnson, Julie Ertz (FP-USA, Out-of-Market), Katie Naughton, Casey Short

Midfielders (11): Jackie Altschuld (NRI), Danielle Colaprico, Taylor Comeau, Vanessa DiBernardo, Sofia Huerta, Lauren Kaskie (Draft Pick), Mary Luba, Alyssa Mautz, Morgan Proffitt (Draft Pick), Courtney Raetzman, Brittany Ratcliffe (NRI)

Forwards (7): Jannelle Flaws (NRI), Summer Green, Jen Hoy, Simone Kolander (NRI), Stephanie McCaffrey, Christen Press (FP-USA), Cara Walls

 

Houston Dash

Did not release updated roster, currently at or under 25 players:

Goalkeepers (3): Jane Campbell (Draft Pick), Bianca Henniger, Lydia Williams

Defenders (9): Bruna Benites, Megan Crosson (NRI) Claire Falknor, Jaylyn Odermann (NRI), Stephanie Ochs, Cami Privett, Poliana, Cari Roccaro, Erin Smith (Draft Pick), Janine Van Wyk

Midfielders (7): Andressa, Morgan Brian (FP-USA), Amber Brooks, Anna Maria Gilbertson, Caity Heap, Carli Lloyd (FP-USA), Denise O’Sullivan

Forwards (6): Janine Beckie (FP-CAN), Rachel Daly, Melissa Henderson, Amber Munnerlyn (NRI), Kealia Ohai, Nichelle Prince (FP-CAN)

 

FC Kansas City

Goalkeepers (4): Nicole Barnhart, Kaela Little (NRI), Cat Parkhill, Danielle Rice (NRI)

Defenders (9): Alex Arlitt, Yael Averbuch, Rashida Beal (Draft Pick), Katie Bowen, Becca Moros, Toriana Patterson (NRI), Brianne Reed, Becky Sauerbrunn (FP-USA), Brittany Taylor

Midfielders (9): Christina Gibbons (Draft Pick), Maegan Kelly (NRI), Lo’eau LaBonta, Mandy Laddish, Sydney Miramontez (NRI), Alexa Newfield, Desiree Scott (FP-CAN), Josie Steiver (NRI), Erika Tymrak

Forwards (3): Shea Groom, Sydney Leroux (FP-USA), Amy Rodriguez (FP-USA)

 

NC Courage

Goalkeepers (2): Katelyn Rowland, Sabrina D’Angelo (FP-CAN)

Defenders (9): Elizabeth Eddy, Abby Erceg, Taylor Smith, Abby Dahlkemper, Jaelene Hinkle, Courtney Niemiec, Meredith Speck, Claire Wagner (Draft Pick), Tina Iordanou (NRI)

Midfielders (8): Michaela Hahn, Samantha Mewis (FP-USA), McCall Zerboni, Samantha Witteman, Rosana, Debinha, Maria Lubrano-Lavadera (NRI), Megan Lindsay (NRI)

Forwards (6): Makenzy Doniak, Lynn Williams, Jessica McDonald, Kristen Hamilton, Ashley Hatch (Draft Pick), Darian Jenkins (Draft Pick)

 

Orlando Pride

Goalkeepers (3): Aubrey Bledsoe, Ashlyn Harris (FP-USA), Hannah Seabert (NRI)

Defenders (8): Laura Alleway, Steph Catley, Monica Hickmann Alves, Alanna Kennedy, Ali Krieger (FP-USA), Cami Levin, Camila Martins Pereira, Toni Pressley

Midfielders (5): Jocelyn Blankenship (NRI), Nickolette Driesse (Draft Pick), Kristen Edmonds, Maddy Evans, Dani Weatherholt

Forwards (9): Christina Burkenroad, Danica Evans (Draft Pick), Jamia Fields, Sarah Hagen, Rachel Hill (NRI), Carol Rodrigues (NRI), Jasmyne Spencer, Tabitha Tindell (NRI), Chioma Ubogagu

 

Portland Thorns

Did not release updated roster, currently at or under 25 players:

Goalkeepers (3): Emily Armstrong (NRI), Britt Eckerstrom, Adrianna Franch

Defenders (9): Ellie Boon (NRI), Meghan Cox (NRI), Caroline Flynn (Draft Pick), Kelli Hubly (NRI), Kendall Johnson, Meghan Klingenberg (FP-USA), Emily Menges, Katherine Reynolds, Emily Sonnett (FP-USA)

Midfielders (7): Celeste Boureille, Dagny Brynjarsdottir, Amandine Henry, Lindsey Horan (FP-USA), Allie Long (FP-USA), Mana Shim, Mallory Weber

Forwards (6): Tobin Heath (FP-USA), Ashley Herndon (NRI), Nadia Nadim, Christine Sinclair (FP-CAN), Meg Morris, Hayley Raso

 

Seattle Reign

Goalkeepers (3): Haley Kopmeyer, Maddie Schiffel, Brianna Smallridge (NRI)

Defenders (10): Elli Reed, Merritt Mathias, Lauren Barnes, Rachel Corsie, Carson Pickett, Anjel Brown (NRI), Maddie Bauer (Draft Pick, Out-of-Market), Kristen McNabb (Draft Pick), Rumi Utsugi, Rebekah Stott

Midfielders (9): Veronica Perez (NRI), Christine Nairn, Jordan Jesolva (NRI), Haley Rosen (NRI), Mimi Rangel (NRI), Lindsay Elston, Paige Nielsen (NRI), Jessica Fishlock, Diana Matheson (FP-CAN, Out-of-Market)

Forwards (6): Beverly Yanez, Kiersten Dallstream, Megan Rapinoe (FP-USA), Nahomi Kawasumi, Katie Johnson (Draft Pick), Larissa Crummer (Out-of-Market)

 

Sky Blue FC 

Goalkeepers (3): Caroline Casey, Kristyn Shea (NRI), Kailen Sheridan (FP-CAN, Draft Pick)

Defenders (6): Mandy Freeman (Draft Pick), Kayla Mills (Draft Pick), Christie Rampone, Domi Richardson, Erin Simon, Erica Skroski

Midfielders (8): Catrina Atanda (Draft Pick), Kelly Conheeney, Daphne Corboz, Sarah Killion, Taylor Lytle, Raquel Rodriguez, Nikki Stanton, Madison Tiernan (Draft Pick)

Forwards (8): Kim DeCesare, Leah Galton, Maya Hayes, Sam Kerr, McKenzie Meehan (Draft Pick), Kelley O’Hara (FP-USA), Danielle Schulmann, Catherine Zimmerman

 

Washington Spirit 

Goalkeepers (4): Kori Butterfield (NRI), Didi Haracic, Stephanie Labbé (FP-CAN), Kelsey Wys (Out-of-Market)

Defenders (6): Whitney Church, Caprice Dydasco, Estelle Johnson, Kassey Kallman, Alyssa Kleiner, Shelina Zadorsky (FP-CAN)

Midfielders (7): Cameron Castleberry (Draft Pick), Meggie Dougherty Howard (Draft Pick), Tori Huster, Lauren Lazo (NRI), Joanna Lohman, Kristie Mewis, Line Sigvardsen Jensen

Forwards (9): Lindsay Agnew (Draft Pick), Gloria Douglas (NRI), Cali Farquharson (Out-of-Market), Francisca Ordega, Arielle Ship (Draft Pick), Havana Solaun, Katie Stengel, Crystal Thomas (NRI), Cheyna Williams

 

Around the World of WoSo: Morgan Hat-Trick, Sweden Gains a Kiwi

Posted on by RJ Allen

Wilkinson to Sweden:

After five years at the University of Tennessee, New Zealand International Hannah Wilkinson has signed her first professional contract. The 24-year-old striker is now in Sweden to play for Vittsjo GIK, a respected club in the Damallsvenskan league.

Wilkinson had a well-rounded career at Tennessee, from 2012-2016 she played in 68 games while scoring 33 goals and adding 19 assists. On the National Team for New Zealand, Wilkinson has been capped 78 times and already played in two World Cups, two Olympic games, and has scored 24 goals. She has so much experience, it’s no wonder a top club wanted her.

If Wilkinson can remain healthy, I would expect her to get on the score sheet plenty once she suits up.

Stout Out For Boston:

The Boston Breakers of the National Women’s Soccer League have announced that goalkeeper Libby Stout has sprained her ankle and is expected to be out 4-6 weeks. In 2016 Stout started in nine of the ten games she appeared in, accumulating 42 saves in that time.

Boston drafted Sammy Jo Prudhomme out of University of Southern California, who won the 2016 NCAA DI College Cup. She and Abby Smith are expected to battle for the number one spot. Preseason has begun for all teams as they prepare for the fifth NWSL season which opens April 15th.

Boston has revamped their roster, adding defenders Megan Oyster, Allysha Chapman, Amanda Frisbie; midfielders Amanda DaCosta, Rosie White, Rose Lavelle; and forwards Tiffany Weimer, Emilie Haavi. I think this could be the year they climb out of the bottom of the table and compete in the middle of the table.

Sky Blue Release Stanley:

Sky Blue FC has announced they have released goalkeeper Caroline Stanley. The 23-year-old got 11 starts in 2016, racking up 33 saves in 940 minutes. She earned two wins, four losses, and four draws in her time in New Jersey.

Sky Blue now turns their attention to Caroline Casey and the rookie from Clemson, Kailen Sheridan. Both are worthy of the number one spot, with Casey earning 10 starts in 2016 and Sheridan playing 21 games her final season at Clemson, earning a .77 goals against average.

With Stanley being a Kansas City native, could we see her land as the backup for Nicole Barnhart in the near future? I think that would be a great opportunity for both FCKC and Stanley.

Moros Back to KC:

A key piece of the 2015 NWSL championship team for Kansas City has returned. After being sent to Houston for the 2016 season, Becca Moros is finding her way back to the Blues. FCKC acquired the defender from Houston for their highest third round pick in the 2018 College Draft.

Moros has played for Portland, Houston, and Kansas City, playing in 58 games since 2014. KC finished in sixth in 2016, and for the first time in two years didn’t qualify for the playoffs. Bringing back Moros is certainly good news; she has always been a solid defender in the NWSL. It’s safe to say the defense in KC just got better, as they also have Becky Sauerbrunn and Katie Bowen, who are stars in their own right. With a few other familiar pieces added (Amy Rodriguez, Sydney Leroux Dwyer), could FCKC return to the top of the league?

New Look Spirit:

The Washington Spirit have signed six players to a new contract: Estelle Johnson, Jo Lohman, Cheyna Williams, Cali Farquharson, Kristie Mewis, and Alyssa Kleiner. They also signed two picks from the 2017 College Draft, Meggie Dougherty Howard (University of Florida) and Lindsay Agnew  (Ohio State).

These are all surely a relief for the Spirit organization, who had a busy off-season. Big time players left including Ali Krieger (Orlando Pride), Christine Nairn (Seattle Reign), Diana Matheson (Seattle Reign), Crystal Dunn (Chelsea Ladies FC), and Estefania Banini (Valencia Feminas FC).

Even with the changes, the Spirit have a reputation for winning, and 2017 is no different. Fans expect them to make the playoffs every year. In 2016 they finished the regular season in second and lost to Western New York Flash in the NWSL final. It will be interesting to watch this team come together and answer the question: Just how long will it take to find that right amount of chemistry?

Only time will tell.

Morgan Finds Her Goals:

Orlando Pride and USWNT star Alex Morgan has finally found her stride for Olympique Lyonnais in the D1 Feminine. In three previous starts, the 27-year-old striker hit the post a few times and came close, but never quite connected the right way. On Sunday she played in her fourth game and managed to score three goals for Lyon.

Was it inevitable, Morgan scoring for Lyon? Of course it was, even with the stacked roster that includes Wendie Renard, Eugenie Le Sommer, Elodie Thomis, Ada Hegerberg, Dzsenifer Marozsan, and many more. Morgan was going to find playing time and with world-class support behind her on the field and on the bench, she was eventually going to find goals.

Morgan got the start and netted her first goal in the 38th minute after finding a slotted pass from Thomis inside the eighteen-yard box. With Lyon leading by just a pair of goals at halftime, Morgan and company turned it on in the second half, showing no mercy. Morgan grabbed her second goal in the 63rd minute, and finished her clinic in the 79th minute to secure the win.

Lyon was competing in the French Cup Quarter-finals against Rodez. With the hat-trick by Morgan leading the way to a 6-0 win, they advance to the semi-finals.

Closing the Book on History: Captain America Says Goodbye to the National Team

Posted on by RJ Allen

Watching players retire can be heartbreaking.

As the story of women’s soccer moves forward, we begin to lose the names that have become familiar to us, the players we grew up watching. Even as new stars break out on the pitch, our long-time favorites must eventually leave it as time and the sport march on. 

Aly Wagner had her last USWNT cap in 2008. Cat Whitehill in 2010. Lori Chalupny, Shannon Boxx, Abby Wambach, and Lauren Holiday in 2015.

And each and every one of them got their first cap after Christie Rampone started playing, and retired before Rampone will have finished playing. 

What no one tells you when you start following a national team is this: following a national team is hard. It’s not like following a baseball team, or a football team. It’s a much different mental state. Players come and go, often more quickly than at the club level. In the NWSL, for example, there are enough spots between the ten rosters, the active player pool has to be very large. But at the national team-level, especially as limited by the (now-expired) CBA conditions, there just isn’t the space. The potential player pool is huge, and while historically the USWNT has often kept players past their prime, fan favorites or players whose past performance has earned them the benefit of the doubt–and, yeah, I’m talking about Wambach at the 2015 World Cup here, among others–it’s a trend we already see being left behind. We’ve reached a new era in the history of the USWNT’s structure, one that moves at a higher pace. 

With 311 caps, Rampone might very well be the last 300+ player the USWNT ever produces, possibly the last in women’s soccer history. Ellis, and maybe all of USSF, want to keep the flow of talent moving from roster to roster. Experience matters less than it has in the whole of the history of the USWNT. On one hand this makes sense as the game gets more and more technical and a style of play based on pure athleticism falls out of favor as other teams improve their athletic talent. On the other hand it’s going to mean more player turnover, a less-stable player pool and fewer and fewer decade long careers to celebrate, not to mention two decade long ones.

Having a more fluid player pool is, at best, a way to motivate players to keep upping their game and at worst a force that keeps the team as a whole off-kilter and unable to form proper cohesion. We saw some of this in 2016 after a handful of long time players stepped away and an influx of new players were brought in. Personnel changed, formations changed, at times it looked like no one knew what they were doing. And while the slow trickle of new talent and new players over the years needs to become a more steady stream, the torrent of changes in 2016 shows that it can’t be coupled with total strategic change as well.

Having players like Rampone or O’Reilly or Engen on the pitch brings a level of experience and often a calm in their play that aids the less experience players. How many times have we seen co-captain Becky Sauerbrunn control the backline, and make saves that ought to be just impossible? It’s not just her skill that makes and breaks the backline–it’s her experience. Her ability to read opposing offenses and break them down time after time after time. 

There needs to be a mix between keeping experienced vets and bringing in new players. There needs to be a balance of stability as well as innovation, or the whole pitch tends to look a mess.

Lately we’ve seen an all or nothing system where the rules are made up as we go. And this is why its so important to acknowledge the departure of Rampone from the national team level. Without her, the team has lost some of the history, the knowledge, the experience, that brought them to the podium time and time again, including 2015’s historic third Women’s World Cup. 

But, outside of all of this, it’s important to acknowledge what Rampone has done for and meant not just to the team, but to the fans, to our personal stories of why we follow, why we love the sport.

For me, Rampone serves a prominent role in my own soccer story.

Unlike a good deal of fans in their late-20s or early-30s, my first taste of soccer didn’t come in 1999. I didn’t fall in love with soccer watching the ’99ers march their way around the US in search of glory at the first Women’s World Cup held in the United States. I became a fan during the Summer Olympics in Athens. I became a fan when, on August 23, 2004, I watched the USWNT play against Germany. I became a fan as Heather O’Reilly hit the net in extra time to send the US to the final.

As I sat waiting for beach volleyball to come on I had to wait for this soccer game to finish. And somehow, watching these woman play a sport I’d never really cared about before, I got hooked. Because it was exciting and powerful and something I had never known before. This game was not one I grew up playing or watching. Girls’ soccer wasn’t a sport my high school even offered. A few played on the boys’ team but saw little field time.

2004 was my 1999. And as I came to figure out later Rampone was my Mia Hamm.

While O’Reilly was who caught my attention first it was Rampone who kept it. It was Rampone who made me tilt my head in wonder as I tried to figure out how she could know what a forward would do before they did it.

In the context of how people talk about the game, Christie Rampone was my Mia Hamm. She was the one that first made me understand the give and take of soccer. It wasn’t all goal scoring and celebration. There was beauty in defending, in working a forward until they turned how you wanted and picking the ball off before they knew what hit them.

Because I didn’t know the history of the women’s march for athletic success and recognition, I went back and watched matches featuring Hamm and Akers and Foudy after I had already watched the games of 2004, 2005, and 2006. I grew to understand the dynamics of the challenges they faced in just trying to make a name for their sport after some of my ideas were already long set in stone. Ideas of how the game should be played and what a “proper” forward, midfielder, defender and goalkeeper should be.

In sports, the first players you see, the first names you recognize, the first magic-makers you watch create miracles on the field, those are the ones that stay with you. The ones who linger and inform your thoughts on every other player you watch take the field. The first players who grabbed my attention were Heather O’Reilly and Christie Rampone. They are the soccer bar against which I judge every new player on the pitch, and let me tell you, it’s a pretty high bar.

But now, as Rampone goes off the national team bench for good, the book on the famous ’99ers finally can be closed and set down. Players might finally be able to step fully out of their shadow now that the last of the previous generation has left the USWNT locker room. But Rampone served as the near-perfect bridge between generations. From the last and the likes of Carla Overbeck to the current and the likes of Julie Johnston. And if you don’t know who Carla Overbeck is it’s time to go watch some old games if you can find them and watch a true master in central defense.

She was able to hold on when others just couldn’t. A little luck maybe, good DNA surely, but most of it, I’m sure, was just force of will and pure love of the game.

I am going to be “that person” and quote my own work. Last year when the USWNT had a camp before the Olympics, Rampone withdrew. I closed my piece about her stepping away with this:

There will never be another player quite like Christie Rampone. Her number 3 will never quite look the same on someone else’s back as it did on hers. She might never have reached the level of name recognition that Mia Hamm or Alex Morgan have. She was never as publicly outspoken as Abby Wambach. But Rampone was the heartbeat of the United States women’s national team for over half of its life. She was a leader—a force to be reckoned with on defense and a guiding force to players young and old. Stepping away on her own terms must be commended even if the taste left in many people’s mouths is bittersweet.

Captain America will officially end her tenure as captain and player on the national team on March 4. All I can say is I’ve never been happier we have the NWSL to give us at least two-dozen games to say goodbye to one of the greatest players, and for my money the greatest defender, the game has ever seen.

Who knows, maybe in her final year she might need to pack for LA again.

Breaking: NWSL Releases Full 2017 Schedule

Posted on by RJ Allen

The NWSL dropped the full 24-match schedule for each of the 10 teams this morning, to the great relief of fans across the world.

Each team will play 24 matches–12 home and 12 away–and meet with every club at least twice, once at home and once away. The teams’ schedules include three games each against six selected teams, and two games against the remaining three teams.

The confirmed schedules include three FIFA windows–one in each June, July, and September–to allow international players the freedom to return home for National Team duties, but will not feature an extended break as it has over the past two summers (for 2015’s World Cup and 2016’s Olympics, respectively).

Details on which games will be aired on Lifetime each weekend are not yet available.

NWSL Releases Home Opener Schedule

Posted on by RJ Allen

This afternoon the NWSL released information about the league’s 2017 season home openers.

The release was chock full of important information. Most notable, perhaps, was the fact that 2017’s Opening Weekend will take place April 15-16 and feature five games, though a close contender is sure to be just which teams will be featured in Lifetime TV’s first “Game of the Week” broadcast.

Well, wait no longer.

Continuing their history-making trend, the first “Game of the Week” will be April 15’s showdown between Portland Thorns FC and Orlando Pride at Providence Park. For the second year in a row, a game between Portland and Orlando at Providence will look to make a mark on the Women’s Soccer world. Last year, of course, the Orlando Pride played their first-ever match at Portland, where they made a good show but ultimately lost 1-2 to the Thorns.

Other matches during Opening Weekend include:

  • Houston Dash v Chicago Red Stars @ BBVA Compass Stadium (April 15)
  • Seattle Reign FC v Sky Blue FC @ Memorial Stadium (April 15)
  • Washington Spirit v North Carolina Courage @ Maryland SoccerPlex (April 15)
  • FC Kansas City v Boston Breakers @ Swope Soccer Village (April 16)

The league’s newest franchise, the North Carolina Courage (formerly Western New York Flash, for those unaware of the off-season move) will host their first-ever match the following weekend, when they welcome the Portland Thorns to WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, April 22. The Courage will look to make a splash as they somehow balance the almost oxymoronic titles of Reigning NWSL Champions and Newest NWSL Club.

But perhaps even more anticipated than North Carolina’s debut that weekend will be the showdown taking place in Orlando’s brand new Orlando City Stadium between the Pride and visiting Washington Spirit. The match on the 22nd will be heavily watched by fans of both sides, owing not only to the quality of the competition but to the somewhat frustrating nature of the trade that sent national team member and former Spirit RB Ali Krieger to the Pride in exchange for what some called a paltry gain in the distribution ranking order.

Other home openers during Week Two:

  • Chicago Red Stars v FC Kansas City @ Toyota Park (April 22)
  • Boston Breakers v Sky Blue FC @ Jordan Field (April 23)

The last team to play at home this season, but never the least, will be Sky Blue FC, who will welcome their fans back to Yurcak Field on Sunday, April 30, in game against FC Kansas city. FCKC will likely have back Amy Rodriguez, a key component missing from their roster last year, while Sky Blue’s roster features the great Captain America, Christie Rampone, whose steady leadership always makes SBFC a formidable opponent for any team.

Other information revealed in the release today includes confirmation of a 24 game season (12 home games, 12 away), though it’s not yet clear if the schedule will feature “geographic rivalries” as last year’s did.

The full press release can be located on the NWSL’s website here.

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

Who is Supporting the Supporters?

Posted on by RJ Allen

Supporters Groups are a common sight dotting the soccer landscape. They are one of the most ubiquitous things found in the game no matter the league, the continent, or the crest players on the pitch.

But who is tasked with supporting the Supporters Groups in the US?

That duty falls to the Independent Supporters Council (ISC). ISC is an organization founded in 2009 to – according to their mission statement, “advocate for the fair treatment of home and away supporters, promote supporters culture, and oppose both racism and bias inside stadiums in North America”. Members include supporters groups from MLS, USL, NASL, NPSL, and NWSL.

Four of the NWSL teams have supporters groups in the ISC: Cloud 9 from Sky Blue FC, Rose City Riveters from the Portland Thorns, Chicago Local 134 from the Chicago Red Stars, and Triangle Soccer Fanatics from the North Carolina Courage.

The ISC had their annual meeting in Atlanta, GA from January 27-28.

I was lucky enough to sit down with Jen Muller from Cloud 9 and Gab Rosas from the Rose City Riveters to talk about the meeting, the ISC, and supporters culture overall and in the NWSL.

Backline Soccer: A question that a lot of new soccer fans often ask is what is “supporters culture” and how does it differ from just being the fan of a club?

Gabby Rosas: It’s sort of the next step. You can love the club and not be in the SG. The SG is more/less organized, passionate fans who want to cheer on the team home and away to the point they are personally invested in each match and each season.

Jennifer Muller: Exactly. Supporters are the people that help create the atmosphere you hear and see at games. We do everything from make banners and tifo displays to play drums and sing for the full 90 minutes.

BS: One thing people might not understand is the difference between an independent supporters group and one that is run by the club. Can you each give your take on why being independent is important?

GR: I think of the groups run by a FO (the club) as more of a “fan club”… they usually try to set up player meet & greets and are a bit more focused on getting autographs and photo ops. A supporters group, as Jen said earlier, makes the noise and displays at the match. I think they are on different levels.

JM: Exactly, that’s not to say we can’t work closely with the team, which we do with Sky Blue. But it’s important to remain independent. It’s just the business of pro sports that front offices have turnover. People come and go, but supporters are the constant.

BS: Do you think active supporters culture and not just fans of the team is important to the health and longevity of that league?

GR: I think that’s a slippery slope. The problem woso has had in this country has been trying to be too targeted with hitting certain demographics.

GR: I think women’s soccer has always had supporters, but I think that the league getting past year 3 has shown people that this is worth the investment.

JM: But I think an active and strong supporter culture can help break that cycle of appealing just to that certain demographic.

GR: Sure. I agree with that.

BS: Let’s switch gears from the NWSL to something a bit larger. Both of you went to the Independent Supporters Council meeting in Atlanta. Why is being in the ISC important to each of you and your supporters groups?

GR: I think the ISC, like a lot of other collective bargaining groups, provides a lot of support both in networking and structure. It is great to have access to a large network of SGs across the country to find out how they do things or learn about their successes. The structure can provide assistance as the NWSL SG culture grows and SGs interact with more Front Offices or even the league.

JM: For smaller clubs like Cloud 9, the information shared at the meetings and throughout the year is invaluable to us. I also see our involvement as a way to help open the NWSL up to a larger audience among soccer supporters in the US.

GR: That’s an excellent point!

JM: Maybe a supporters group of a team from another league sees our involvement and realizes that we’re trying to build a real supporters culture here. They might be more inclined to check out a game that’s local to them.

BS: How have the groups from more established clubs reacted to having NWSL groups there? One of you being attached to an MLS club in Portland, the other not being attached to one in New Jersey, I do wonder if there are any differences.

JM: Though we’re not attached to an MLS club, I came into the ISC as a board member for the Empire Supporters Club, which is an SG of the New York Red Bulls. So I already had contacts on the MLS side. Which has made things a bit easier. This was the first year we had more than one NWSL rep at the meetings so it gave us an opportunity to address the rest of the members and basically explain the league and where supporter culture is at the moment. I’d say the response was positive. We were welcomed and wanted at the meetings.

JM: And we were encouraged to reach out to those that are not members to encourage them to join the ISC.

GR: I agree, the reaction was positive. I think a lot of MLS SG organizations are familiar with being in either start-up mode or in a position where you are looking to grow.

JM: Right. And they are very willing to share their knowledge for those of us just starting out.

GR: Totally. Best practices, some roadblocks they have come across themselves.

BS: Right now there are four supporter groups in Cloud 9 from Sky Blue FC, Rose City Riveters from the Portland Thorns, Chicago Local 134 from the Chicago Red Stars, and Triangle Soccer Fanatics from the North Carolina Courage. Do you see more adding in the future?

GR: Very near future.

JM: Yes. We’ve started reaching out to the other groups already.

BS: Over the last four years of the NWSL what do you each think have been the biggest challenges for your supporters groups overall? You come from different markets so I’m wondering what challenges you might face that are different and the same.

GR: Ohhhhh. That’s a tough one

JM: Yeah, this may take a while.

GR: I think the Riveters have done a good job of becoming our own thing. I think, at first, there was some worry that folks would see us as the “lady timbers army” or something. Having such a large organization with us means we have to constantly work to find our own direction.

JM: One of the biggest challenges is introducing the concept of supporter culture to fans that might not be used to it. Teams that have MLS (and now NASL) ties are already starting with an established base of fans, whether it’s the supporters club itself or at least fans with knowledge of the supporter culture. The unaffiliated teams such as ours are starting from the ground up. There’s a decent amount of fan crossover with Sky Blue and the three MLS clubs that are in proximity (the two NY teams and Philly). But when we first started to really get organized in 2015 there were (and still are) a lot of people that didn’t know what to make of us. Last year we saw a big boost and that had a lot to do with the team being behind us 100%. We probably work a bit closer with our front office than in a place like Portland because we need to lean on each other to succeed. Sky Blue knows that if we grow as a club that will only help them in the long run by creating a better atmosphere and bringing in more fans. And if we can do our part in bringing in those fans (sometimes quite literally with our rideshare program), we’ll continue to have a team to support.

BS: Why should someone join a supporters group in the NWSL?

GR: I think you should join to make friends, expand your network. When you join, you meet folks who have a shared interest. Oh, and it is tons of fun to stand and chant for your team.

GR: Even if you aren’t one for being loud at matches, you can join and help bring awareness to woso in other ways.

JM: Even though soccer is a lot more popular now than when I was younger, people still find themselves without ‘soccer friends’. You’ll hear people say they want to go to games but they have no one to go with. When you join a supporters group, you basically get instant soccer friends. You can count on us to be at every home game. You can find people to have actual conversations with about soccer and not just talk about who their favorite players are.

JM: Gabby, that’s a good point. You don’t need to be in the section and making noise to be a part of a supporters club. Yes, our main focus is on game day, but we’re also a sort of social club.

GR: Yea, we’re a social club and we also want to give back to the community.

JM: Yes! Getting involved in community service and charitable efforts is something that many clubs do.

GR: Yea, I think there are a lot of ways to contribute to a SG aside from gameday operations.

GR: Are you a season ticket holder that sits in another section? That’s okay. If you’re buying SG merch, you’re helping to grow the group and enable it to do more.

JM: Yup. We have members that live out of the state and can’t even make it to games. But they still pay their dues because they want to contribute.

BS: Favorite team to play against because of the fun you have with/against the other supporters group?

GR: KC is both my favorite and I hate it because they have our number.

JM: Washington.

BS: Who is a player from your team who has shown their support back to you most.

GR: Oh. Man. Um. Can I say all of them?

JM: Yeah, they’ve all been great, but I’ll say Kim DeCesare. She hitched a ride with a few of our members to a game in Washington. She put the adventure on the Sky Blue Snapchat. But really they all give us a shout out at one point or another.

JM: And they acknowledge us on our road trips, which is important.

JM: That was the epic 7-hour tailgate in the rain with the Spirit Squadron.

GR: Yea, the players in the NWSL are fantastic about showing support right back

BS: OK this should be easier. Maybe. Favorite tailgate pregame food?

GR: Tacos.

GR: We don’t have traditional tailgates in Portland, though. We have a taco place across the street from the stadium.

JM: We’re still working on upping our tailgate game, which should start happening this year. Last year I was pretty consistent with my Jerk Style Chicken Wrap from Wawa.

BS: Favorite sign or tifo your supporters group has made?

GR: I’m still in love with the Super Heroes tifo from 2013. It was magical.

JM: This wasn’t a banner made for stadium-wide display. In the off-season last year, Christy Holly start using “Onwards & Upwards” in his tweets. So we took that and made a huge banner that we hung above the locker room. So only the players and staff would see it.

JM: Before the last game of the season we were able to take a group photo with the team under the banner.

BS: Final question before we let people know where to find you. If Captain American and Captain Canada battled in a 5 v 5 with teammates, who would you want them to pick?

GR: Tobin, Menges, Horan, Betos up top

JM: KO, Kai, Galton, Killion. It’s the Chaos and Order team.

BS: If someone would like more info or to get in touch with your supporters groups, where can they reach you online?

GR: Can find the Riveters at @PDXRivetersSG, I’m at @gabpdx, website is www.rosecityriveter.org, email: info@rosecityriveters.org.

JM: You can go to Email: info@cloud9sc.com, Web: cloud9sc.com, Twitter: @cloud9sbfc

Thanks to both Jen and Gabby for taking the time to speak with me.