#Free Agency Period NWSL

[arnau16]

Gradas, despachos y estrellas, el 2022 de la NWSL

El décimo aniversario de la NWSL nos ha llevado de la alegría a las lágrimas pasando por despachos y gradas. Toca poner las cartas sobre la mesa. (more…)

[ear-worthy]

Women's World Cup Soccer: Podcasts For Fans & Messi, Of Course

Like a good podcast, State Farm sponsors Women’s World Cup show

 It's definitely an unusual coupling with Brendan Hunt, who plays Coach Beard on ‘Ted Lasso,’ and Rebecca Lowe, presenter for NBC Sports, as they team up again to celebrate the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

They talk about all the superstars, the drama … and, of course, the Team USA women, who are hoping to secure their third World Cup win in a row. The U.S. team did advance to the knockout stage on Tuesday, August 1. After the Whistle with Brendan Hunt and Rebecca Lowe is an Apple News Original podcast presented by State Farm®. Reportedly, listeners don't need collision or comprehensive in order to listen to the podcast.

After the defensive-minded and conservative approach the American team has taken in the group stage, perhaps the team needs a talk from Ted Lasso. BELIEVE.

*********************************************************

Attacking Third: A CBS Sports Soccer Podcast

One of the best soccer podcasts is from CBS Sports covering the NWSL, US Women's National Team and more. Attacking Third offers listeners insider analysis, commentary, preview, and recaps while tackling the biggest news stories from the soccer / football. Hosts Sandra Herrera and Lisa Roman welcome a rotating cast of guests from former and current players for interviews and analysis.

On a recent episode, Sandra Herrera and Lisa Carlin welcomed San Diego Wave and USWNT defender Naomi Girma, who is preparing for her first World Cup at just 23 years old and talks about everything from getting the call, telling her parents and packing. Girma dives into how she's planning on taking a bigger leadership role with the US.

In another episode, Sandra Herrera and Lisa Carlin discussed the breaking news out of the Republic of Ireland, with manager Vera Pauw being accused of misconduct during her time in the NWSL with Houston Dash in 2018.  Plus, they discussed the free agency period, which is in full swing in Europe, and the trade window is full in the NWSL. 

Of course, now the podcast discusses the Women's World Cup. 

Did you see that Columbia header with almost no time left to beat Germany?

*****************************************************

 The Messi Effect podcast debuts

The Messi Effect, takes you into the world of legendary soccer player Lionel Messi as he graces the shores of Miami and becomes the star attraction of Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS). But this podcast isn’t your typical soccer analysis; it’s a glamorous exploration of the magnetic allure and larger-than-life impact that Messi’s presence brings to the city of Miami and the league.

So far, Messi has scored three times in two MLS games. The Messi Effect delves deep into the glitz, glamour, and cultural phenomenon surrounding the iconic Argentinean maestro’s arrival in Miami. Listeners will be treated to behind-the-scenes stories of the larger-than-life parties, star-studded events, and the fashion-forward lifestyle that intertwines with Messi’s new life in Miami. This podcast is a celebration of Messi’s incredible journey, exploring the unique synergy that exists between a global sports superstar and the vibrant tapestry of Miami’s cosmopolitan lifestyle. From exploring the city’s pulsating nightlife to delving into the fusion of art, music, and soccer that defines Miami, The Messi Effect invites you to experience the magic beyond the stadium.

So place the Ronaldo versus Messi debates on hold, and listen to The Messi Effect. Who knows. Soon, there may be The Ronaldo Impact podcast.

[bufffnaked]

CBS Soccer! :)

2023 way too early NWSL Power Rankings

Rank

Team

Change

Analysis

1.

Portland Thorns FC

–

Newly promoted head coach Mike Norris steps in for former manager Rhian Wilkinson and that commitment to continuity is present throughout the team. The Thorns will enter the regular season with nearly all of their 2022 NWSL Championship roster intact. Sophia Smith is the reigning league MVP, and the club re-signed long-time captain Christine Sinclair for one more year in an effort to chase another title.

2.

Kansas City Current

–

The club ended its season as runners-up in the 2022 NWSL Championship, narrowly missing out on a remarkable "worst-to-first" season. After looking stagnant and out-classed in the final the front office quickly got to work to get even better. They re-signed key players Hailie Mace, Alex Loera, and Kate Del Fava. and then won the free agency period by signing three sought-after targets Morgan Gautrat, Vanessa DiBernardo, and Debinha. 

3.

San Diego Wave FC

–

Wave FC were calculated in their offseason moves after a historic inaugural season ended in a playoff semifinal appearance. Head coach Casey Stoney and general manager Molly Downtain retained much of the inaugural roster, and added pieces in free agency. The midfield got a big boost with Danielle Colaprico, but if young prospect Jayden Shaw can add more goals in her sophomore year expect the Wave to have another successful season. 

4.

OL Reign

–

The 2022 NWSL Shield winners ended their season with a semifinal defeat in the playoffs. Head coach Laura Harvey has made minor changes to her roster leading into the 2023 season. Veteran re-signings with Lauren Barnes and Megan Rapinoe were predictable moves, but the additions of defender Emily Sonnett, forward Elyse Bennett, and midfielder Luany could provide the team with a new spark.

5.

Houston Dash

–

The club hired a new head coach in Sam Laity and he's tasked with taking the team to the next level after the the made its first-ever postseason appearance in franchise history. They retained key players in free agency with new contracts for Sophie Schmidt and Allysha Chapman and have many players returning from their quarterfinals run. But acquiring Diana Ordonez might take the team to the next level if she can replicate the record-breaking goal-scoring from her rookie season. 

6.

NJ/NY Gotham FC

–

The east coast side leaned into veteran experience this offseason after hiring new head coach Juan Carlos Amoros. They landed goalkeeper Abby Smith in free agency and re-signed Ifeoma Onumonu and Taylor Smith. They also acquired Yazmeen Ryan and in maybe the splashiest move of the off-season traded for USWNT forward Lynn Williams during the draft, setting up big expectations for the club after a last-place finish in 2022.

7.

Chicago Red Stars

–

The team suffered the biggest departures in free agency losing all of their starting midfielders. They tried to stop the bleeding by acquiring veteran Cari Roccaro, and signing Brazilian international Julia Binachi. Forward Mallory Swanson has had two consecutive MVP-caliber seasons with the team and is in remarkable form with the national team, but much of the clubs' success will depend on how their new midfield pieces pan out. 

8.

Racing Louisville FC

–

Head coach Kim Björkegren has created a roster of massive international talent since he joined the franchise in 2022. Nigerian forwardl Uchenna Kanu is the newest addition and enters the league off a successful stint with Tigres Femenil. While most teams will feel the pressure of international windows in a World Cup year, Louisville may feel the impact hardest. A break in the regular season will help, but how all the new pieces mesh together will put a lot of pressure on Bjorkegren getting his tactics right. 

9.

Orlando Pride

–

The Pride promoted Seb Hines to head coach after the team went on an undefeated streak during his time as the interim boss. The team picked up exciting young players in the draft, but how players return from injury may impact the teams' success as Brazilian icon Marta returns post-ACL injury and Vivanna Villacorta continues to strengthen her ankle after season-ending ligament surgery last season.

10.

Angel City FC

–

Angel City will embark on just their second season but made minor moves in the offseason to improve. The biggest brand in the league struck out in the first-ever free agency period but did manage to sign Katie Johnson to the roster. It's a risky move to hope multiple players (Christen Press, Sydney Leroux, Sarah Gorde, etc) have breakout seasons after major injuries, but the team has a young prospect in Alyssa Thompson to be excited about.

11.

Washington Spirit

–

The 2021 NWSL Champions took a complete 180 degree turn and struggled during their 2022 season. The team strung together just enough performances to avoid last place, but may not have accomplished enough in the offseason to get them back to the playoffs. Much will depend on whether or not the current core of players will buy into former NWSL champion and new head coach Mark Parsons' tactics in his second stint with the club. 

12.

North Carolina Courage

–

The team officially closed the chapter on an entire era after losing Debinha to free agency and trading team captain Abby Erceg. The roster also lost Carson Pickett and Merritt Methias in the trades, but welcomes USWNT defender Emily Fox, Estelle Johnson, and Tyler Lussi to the squad. 

[hardtchill]

Do we realistically think that cp and th will play for separate teams ever again?

Depends on the situation i guess. I don’t think they want to, but technically LV can refuse to let them both go, that’s the insane part of the American system. LV isn’t paying them, they haven’t signed a contract (with the league or LV), they have no connection with the city and it doesn’t seem like they want to be there. But nonetheless LV owns them.

If LV refuses to let both go or doesn’t want to trade them to the same team, they will be forced to choose. Retire or play on separate teams. Now this is not very common and it’s more likely that LV will give up on defending their stupid strategic choices, but it can happen.

Really the NWSL needs free agency or at least a rule that makes sure that rights automatically expire after a certain period of time or a rule that allows players to force a team to release their rights. Until that happens, players only have as much control as a team is willing to give them, which is not much at most teams.

[the-necessary-unnecessary]

American here, after getting into the European leagues a lot more lately I actually like their system over ours a bit. I’m okay with the draft but I do wish the NWSL allowed for ‘free agency’ as we call. In most sports after X number of years after being drafted, a player can then choose to sign with whomever they want. Currently a player is essentially tied to the team with no FA period. Most leagues allow contracts with a no trade clause which is usually obtained during FA contract negotiation

Hey dis is cool, thanks for your perspective! And huh, I didnt know that there is actually such things as 'free agency' and no trade clauses in other leagues and yet the nwsl seems to not even be in negotiations to implement it some time in the future. Again puts into perspective how the nwsl is pretty restrictive even for us sport standards

[arnau16]

Gradas, despachos y estrellas, el 2022 de la NWSL

Gradas, despachos y estrellas, el 2022 de la NWSL

El décimo aniversario de la NWSL nos ha llevado de la alegría a las lágrimas pasando por despachos y gradas. Toca poner las cartas sobre la mesa. (more…)

[ear-worthy]

Soccer Podcasts For Your Ears Only: Women's World Cup; NWSL; The Messi Effect

Like a good podcast, State Farm sponsors Women’s World Cup show

 It's definitely an unusual coupling with Brendan Hunt, who plays Coach Beard on ‘Ted Lasso,’ and Rebecca Lowe, presenter for NBC Sports, as they team up again to celebrate the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

They’ll talk about all the superstars, the drama … and, of course, the Team USA women, who are hoping to secure their third World Cup win in a row. After the Whistle with Brendan Hunt and Rebecca Lowe is an Apple News Original podcast presented by State Farm®. Reportedly, listeners don't need collision or comprehensive in order to listen to the podcast.

Attacking Third: A CBS Sports Soccer Podcast

One of the best soccer podcasts is from CBS Sports covering the NWSL, US Women's National Team and more. Attacking Third offers listeners insider analysis, commentary, preview, and recaps while tackling the biggest news stories from the soccer / football. Hosts Sandra Herrera and Lisa Roman welcome a rotating cast of guests from former and current players for interviews and analysis.

On a recent episode, Sandra Herrera and Lisa Carlin welcomed San Diego Wave and USWNT defender Naomi Girma, who is preparing for her first World Cup at just 23 years old and talks about everything from getting the call, telling her parents and packing. Girma dives into how she's planning on taking a bigger leadership role with the US.

In another episode, Sandra Herrera and Lisa Carlin discussed the breaking news out of the Republic of Ireland, with manager Vera Pauw being accused of misconduct during her time in the NWSL with Houston Dash in 2018.  Plus, they discussed the free agency period, which is in full swing in Europe, and the trade window is full in the NWSL.

 The Messi Effect podcast debuts

The Messi Effect, takes you into the world of legendary soccer player Lionel Messi as he graces the shores of Miami and becomes the star attraction of Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS). But this podcast isn’t your typical soccer analysis; it’s a glamorous exploration of the magnetic allure and larger-than-life impact that Messi’s presence brings to the city of Miami and the league. The Messi Effect delves deep into the glitz, glamour, and cultural phenomenon surrounding the iconic Argentinean maestro’s arrival in Miami. Listeners will be treated to behind-the-scenes stories of the larger-than-life parties, star-studded events, and the fashion-forward lifestyle that intertwines with Messi’s new life in Miami. This podcast is a celebration of Messi’s incredible journey, exploring the unique synergy that exists between a global sports superstar and the vibrant tapestry of Miami’s cosmopolitan lifestyle. From exploring the city’s pulsating nightlife to delving into the fusion of art, music, and soccer that defines Miami, The Messi Effect invites you to experience the magic beyond the stadium.

So place the Ronaldo versus Messi debates on hold, and listen to The Messi Effect. Who knows. Soon, there may be The Ronaldo Impact podcast.

[arnau16]

Acuerdo histórico en la NWSL, el poder en la mano de las jugadoras

La NWSL ha firmado un acuerdo histórico donde las futbolistas serán dueñas de su futuro por primera vez en la historia (more…)