In an exciting development for women’s sports, WNBA rookie sensation Caitlin Clark has partnered with Cincinnati’s ownership group in their bid to bring a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion team to the city. The Indiana Fever star’s involvement is expected to significantly bolster Cincinnati’s chances of landing the coveted 16th spot in the growing league.
Cincinnati’s Compelling Bid for NWSL Expansion
FC Cincinnati, the city’s Major League Soccer club, is leading the charge to secure an NWSL franchise. The team issued a statement expressing their enthusiasm about Clark joining the initiative:
The NWSL Cincinnati bid team is thrilled that Caitlin Clark has joined our ownership group in pursuit of bringing women’s professional soccer to our city. Her passion for the sport, commitment to elevating women’s sports in and around the Greater Cincinnati region and influence as an athlete and a role model for women and girls around the world, make her a vital part of our compelling bid.
– FC Cincinnati statement
With Clark’s star power and the backing of FC Cincinnati’s resources and infrastructure, the Queen City appears well-positioned to land one of the most sought-after expansion slots in women’s professional sports.
NWSL Poised for Growth
The NWSL, which currently fields 12 teams, is in the midst of an ambitious expansion campaign. Commissioner Jessica Berman has confirmed that the league will add its 15th team in Boston next season, with the 16th franchise to be announced by the end of this year.
Cincinnati finds itself vying for that final spot against Cleveland and Denver, according to Berman. The commissioner praised Clark’s involvement, noting the significance of her commitment to growing the women’s game:
Her accomplishments and contributions to women’s sports is incredible, historic. It’s changed the game for everyone and she’s amazing. Having her interest in the NWSL is an honor. We couldn’t be more excited about her, having shared her own personal story about having been a young soccer player and loving the game, and her messaging around being a multisport athlete, is so important for young kids who aspire to be just like her.
– NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman
Clark’s Meteoric Rise and Passion for Soccer
Caitlin Clark burst onto the national scene during a historic collegiate career at Iowa before being drafted 1st overall by the Fever in 2024. She wasted no time making her mark in the WNBA, earning Rookie of the Year honors after averaging 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and a league-best 8.4 assists per game this season.
While basketball may be her primary focus, Clark’s love for soccer runs deep. She played the sport growing up and has been a vocal advocate for supporting women’s athletics at all levels. Her involvement in Cincinnati’s NWSL bid demonstrates her commitment to using her platform to grow opportunities for female athletes.
The Future of Women’s Soccer in Cincinnati
As the NWSL prepares to announce its 16th team, Cincinnati soccer fans are rallying behind the bid bolstered by Caitlin Clark’s star power. The city boasts a passionate sports fan base, a proven track record of supporting its teams, and now, the backing of one of the brightest young stars in professional sports.
While the final decision rests with the NWSL, Clark’s involvement has undoubtedly elevated Cincinnati’s bid and generated excitement about the prospect of professional women’s soccer in the Queen City. As the league continues to grow and thrive, the future looks bright for the sport and the athletes who inspire the next generation to dream big both on and off the pitch.
