Goalie aims to even the playing field
Pride in the National Women’s Soccer League.
She noted she has seen growth in the Haitian team, which was put pressure on the Americans before ultimately falling 4-0, because the country has focused on the sport and provided the money needed to help make the team more competitive. It’s an attitude shift she wants to see across all of women’s soccer.
“That’s what we are trying to push right now across the board: it’s to keep investing in women, keep investing in these federations and so they can put out a good product on the field,” she said.
Panama coach Kenneth Zseremeta said after the loss to the
Americans the USWNT team won the World Cup because it has more resources and players have a chance to keep getting better. Zseremeta said he wants the same opportunities for his team.
The USWNT is the most successful team in the world, having won four Women’s World Cup titles, four Olympic gold medals, eight Concacaf Gold Cups and two SheBelieves Cup crowns.
The success has inspired a new generation of fans who are the future of American soccer. BBVA Stadium was filled with families for USWNT matches, with girls wearing American jerseys and holding posters with their favorites players’ names.
“We are just trying to inspire the next generation,” Harris said. “We want to show them … with hard work, anything is possible. And we’re trying to pave the way for younger generations to carry on this gift and this legacy.”
The Houston Dash acquired forward Shea Groom, defender Megan Oyster and a conditional second-round pick in the 2022 NWSL College Draft through a trade with Reign FC.
Former Dash defender Amber Brooks and forward Sofia Huerta were sent to Reign FC as part of the trade.
Groom was acquired at the beginning of the 2019 season from Sky Blue FC and went on to make 16 appearances for Reign FC, scoring two goals. The forward has international experience, earning her first call up to the U.S. women’s national team in 2016.
Oyster made 41 appearances, starting all of them, during two seasons with Reign FC. The defender was acquired from the Boston Breakers during the 2018 NWSL Dispersal Draft.
She played two seasons with the W-League’s Newcastle Jets and has competed for women’s national team.
“We have added two outstanding players with lots of experience that will strengthen us heading into the season. I’ve been interested in both players for a long time and am really excited to start working with them,” coach James Clarkson said.
Huerta led Houston last season with five goals and four assists in 2,079 minutes. The striker is currently playing for the W-League’s Sydney FC.
Brooks played every minute of all 24 of the Dash’s regular-season NWSL matches in 2019. The centerback returns to Reign FC after being traded to Houston at the conclusion of the 2015 season. Brooks is currently playing for the W-League’s Adelaide United.
The multiplayer trade is one of many roster moves Houston has made ahead of the 2020 season, with the Dash continuing to revamp their roster. The club previously traded team captain Kealia Ohai to the Chicago Red Stars.
“It’s always sad to see players leave the club, especially two that have played a big part over the years,” Clark said of Huerta and Brooks. “I wish them every success in the future.” the
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