03 December 2020

Washington Spirit sign two-time World Cup winner Kelley O’Hara in trade deal with Utah Royals

Washington Spirit have acquired two-time World Cup winner and Olympic gold medallist Kelley O’Hara in a trade deal.

The US international was traded to Spirit from Utah Royals for $75,000 in allocation money and the Royals will have an influence on how many games O’Hara plays in the regular National Women’s Soccer League season next year.

The defender has made 131 appearances for the US, scored two goals and had 19 assists. She said the move is a ‘dream come true’ for her.

“I am ecstatic to join the Washington Spirit. It has always been a dream of mine to be able to play in the city I call home. This is a young and exciting team with lots of potential and I am looking forward to providing veteran experience to the squad. 

"I can’t wait to get to work on the field with the team and Richie [Burke, head coach], and to be able to make an impact off the field in the community. I want to bring a championship to Spirit fans and the District, and make soccer this city’s favourite sport.”

The 2021 NWSL season is slightly different to usual with the Challenge Cup coming in April and the regular season starting in May.

Players will start their pre-season in February which follows a long break from NWSL action as the 2020 season finished in October.

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