More womens Soccer coming to Seattle

July 9th, Ballard FC announced the expansion to a new USL W team which is a pre-professional league across the United States with the Seattle team making its debut in 2025. Sam Zisette, co-founder and president of Ballard FC says that this new women’s team will have its own identity. This fall the branding behind the team will be released. 

The USL W league officially kicked off in 2022 with 80 teams across the country and new teams emerging every year. Among the investors, there are some familiar faces. Hometown hero and University of Washington women’s soccer alum Olivia Van Der Jagt, along with her Seattle Reign teammates Lauren Barnes and Jess Fishlock, are all investors in the team. They are joined by Sam Hiatt of Gotham FC, Ginny Gilder, co-owner of the Seattle Storm, and Jen Barnes, the owner of the hit sports bar Rough and Tumble, all contributing to the Ballard FC family. 

This pre-professional team will allow for athletes coming out of college to further their skills between graduating college and going professional. Continuing to advance the women’s game and allowing athletes to further their skills. Increasing accessibility for female athletes to increase their game and be able to pursue professional careers. Continued investment at all different levels of the women’s game provides more opportunities for women wanting to become a part of the professional game.

Go Dawgs, watch women’s sports.

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