sport news Washington Spirit signs youngest-ever player Chloe Ricketts, 15, to NWSL ... trends now
The Washington Spirit has signed 15-year-old midfielder Chloe Ricketts, making the current high school sophomore the youngest contracted NWSL player ever.
The club announced on Friday that Ricketts has signed a three-year contract with an option for 2026.
At 15 years, 283 days old, Ricketts surpasses Portland Thorns FC's Olivia Moultrie, who signed her first professional contract at 15 years, 286 days old on June 30, 2021.
Ricketts will join the NWSL through the league's new Under-18 Entry Mechanism, which will see her occupy a full roster spot, while ensuring she resides with a parent or legal guardian until she turns 18 years of age, may not be traded or waived before age 18 without both her and her parent/legal guardian's consent and may not be selected in expansion drafts.
She will also continue her education virtually throughout the season with the full support of the club.
NWSL team the Washington Spirit has signed 15-year-old midfielder Chloe Ricketts
With the deal, the high school becomes sophomore the youngest contracted NWSL player ever
Ricketts surpasses Portland Thorns FC's Olivia Moultrie, who signed at 15 years, 286 days old
Ricketts joined the Spirit for preseason training camp in January after being invited as part of a group of non-roster players, traveling with the team to Florida as well as training in Leesburg, Virginia.
The young star is said to have impressed with her competitive drive and ability to compete with players at the professional level, earning herself a professional contract with the team.
'The opportunity to join the Washington Spirit on a professional contract is a dream come true,' Ricketts stated.
'I'm looking forward to continuing my development as a player and individual with the great resources here in the District. Having the chance to work with Dawn Scott (Performance, Medical and Innovation) and Head Coach Mark Parsons as I begin my professional career is exciting, and I can't wait to do my part in contributing to the club's success… Now, let's go win another championship!'
A Michigan native, Ricketts competed for AFC Ann Arbor in 2022 after becoming the youngest player in the youth club's history at 14.
In 2021, Ricketts played with the 2007 Boys Ann Arbor Tigers that won the Michigan State Cup and the National League Great Lakes Conference as well as the 2006 Girls team that advanced to the Elite Clubs National League finals.
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