117 Days to Kickoff and a Look at the Stars So Far

117 Days to Kickoff and a Look at the Stars So Far
Published on
December 20, 2024

As the Northern Super League (NSL) prepares for its highly anticipated inaugural season, teams across the league are finalizing their rosters, introducing a diverse mix of talent from across the globe. 

With 117 days to go, let’s take stock of all the confirmed signings so far.

CALGARY WILD FC

The Wild are shaping up to be a force, boasting a solid mix of international talent and hometown stars. Leading the midfield is the Wild’s very first player, Farkhunda Muhtaj (Afghanistan), a key signing from Fortuna Sittard. Joining her in the backline is Meikayla Moore, a New Zealand international from Glasgow City F.C., alongside versatile defender Mijke Roelfsema. 

Local names like Caleigh Boeckx (Winger/Wingback) and Grace Stordy (Right Fullback) bring hometown pride, while goalkeeper Sarah Keilty-Dilling strengthens Calgary’s defense. Jaclyn Sawicki (Philippines) and Christie Gray round out an impressive squad.

HALIFAX TIDES FC

The Tides made headlines in October by signing Canadian soccer icon Erin McLeod as their goalkeeper. Hailing from St. Albert, Alberta, McLeod brings a wealth of experience from her time with Stjarnan FC and the Canadian national team. Her leadership will be critical for Halifax as they build out their roster.

MONTRÉAL ROSES FC

Montréal’s roster already shows international flair and local promise. Headlining their signings is Charlotte Bilbault, a seasoned defensive midfielder from Montpellier HSC in France. Goalkeeper Gabrielle Lambert, a Quebec native, brings experience from SC Freiburg, while rising forward Latifah Abdu adds firepower after time with both the Canadian National Team and En Avant Guingamp. The Roses also recently added Edmonton-born Tanya Boychuk, a promising forward coming from Vittsjö GIK in Sweden who will be a key offensive weapon.

OTTAWA RAPID FC

While Ottawa has yet to unveil their roster, the team has made a significant move by hiring Katrine Pedersen as their head coach. The former Danish international brings years of coaching and playing experience to the club. Fans can expect player announcements in the coming weeks as the Rapid prepare to make their mark.

AFC TORONTO

Toronto’s squad is deep with midfield talent. Jade Kovacevic, the very first player signed to any NSL team and a prolific midfielder from North Toronto Nitros, leads a group that includes Cloey Uddenberg (previously of Simcoe County Rovers FC) and Canadian Women’s National Team star Emma Regan. 

International signings like Aoi Kizaki from Japan (Tokyo Verdy Beleza) and hometown stars like Leah Pais (Thróttur Reykjavík FC) add depth while balancing youth and experience. Croix Soto (Houston Dash) also joins the roster as the first NWSL player to make the move north of the border to join the NSL for our inaugural season. Local defender Kaela Hansen completes a robust lineup ready to take on the league.

VANCOUVER RISE FC

Vancouver is making a statement with their signings, particularly in defense. Shannon Woeller, a Vancouver native and former Eskilstuna United DFF and Canadian Women’s National Team player, brings stability to the backline. Up front, Jessica DeFilippo adds attacking flair returning to Canada from Europe where she played with Sporting de Huelva in Spain and German club 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam. Vancouver also bolstered their roster with goalkeeper Morgan McAslan, who started for the Whitecaps Elite in all five matches in the inaugural Concacaf W Champions Cup, and defender Ariel Young, the first Rise FC player to come through the Whitecaps FC Girls Elite Academy program.

With star power, technical expertise and depth already on display, the NSL is shaping up to be a thrilling competition. Keep an eye on our player tracker as the countdown to kickoff continues!

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