NFL
By: Ashmere Prasad
The NWSL season is back in full swing, and with two new clubs to focus on: Denver Summit and Boston Legacy. Bay FC will face Denver Summit for their season opener at PayPal Park in San Jose on Saturday, March 14.
Bay FC is returning for its third season with multiple changes. They have a new head coach, Emma Coates, with Gemma Davies joining as her assistant coach. Coates is well known for her youth player development and individual player growth. The pair have been coaching England’s Women Under-23 team since 2023.
20 players returned to the club from last season’s roster, along with eight new additions from all across the league and internationally. Unfortunately, defender Alyssa Malonson was placed on the season-ending injury list on Monday, March 9, due to an ACL tear. Malonson played a crucial role in the club’s defense.
Players to look out for
Midfielder Claire Hutton joined Bay FC from the Kansas City Current for a near league-record transfer fee. She is the youngest player to captain the USWNT in the modern era, and head coach Coates complimented her style upon her arrival to the team.
“She’s a top-quality player who is tight on the ball, and she has the mobility and physical presence to break up play. “Despite her age, she brings experience and a strong mentality, and we believe she has the potential to become one of the best midfielders in the world.”
Bay Area native Jasmine Aikey was named the number one player in the NCAA and signed a two-year contract with the Denver Summit. The forward brings elite talent to the new club and has people buzzing with a possible Rookie of the Year title.
Bay FC is heading into the season looking forward to a fresh start, and of course, to win. Coates has stressed that this team is focusing on developing a style of play that is sustainable for the players and the newer team.
“I think if we [win games well] and we focus more on the how, opposed to the what, the
what and the outcome sort of takes care of itself. But we’re an ambitious club, and we want
to win football matches. And of course, we want to try and make the playoffs this season.”
Denver has built a strong club in the offseason with a combination of veteran and rookie talent. Their backline and reliable goalkeeping unit are a threat to keep an eye on as the season progresses.
Oh, and let’s remember Bay FC won the first game of their inaugural season on the road against Angel City. Expectations for a new club are at an all-time high, especially on the road. We expect Denver to play their best in their first match and give Bay FC a challenge to open the season.
