Caitlin Clark Joins Bid for NWSL Expansion Team in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI, Ohio — Rising basketball star Caitlin Clark continues to expand her influence beyond the court, recently joining a group aiming to introduce a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion team in Cincinnati. Clark, who was named the WNBA Rookie of the Year, showcased her versatility last week by participating in an LPGA pro-am tournament in Florida before announcing her new venture in soccer.
The NWSL Cincinnati bid team expressed excitement over Clark’s involvement, highlighting her dedication to promoting women’s sports and serving as a role model for young athletes. "Her passion for the sport and commitment to elevating women’s sports in and around the Greater Cincinnati region make her a vital part of our compelling bid to become the 16th team in the NWSL," the team stated.
Currently, Cincinnati hosts Major League Soccer’s FC Cincinnati, and the addition of an NWSL team would further enhance the city’s sports landscape. Reports from the Sports Business Journal indicate that prospective expansion bids are being evaluated in five cities, including Cincinnati, Cleveland, Denver, Nashville, and Philadelphia. The new NWSL team is set to join the league for the 2026 season.
This follows the NWSL’s announcement of another expansion franchise, BOS Nation FC, in Boston, set to debut in the same year. As the league prepares for the 2024 season, which features 14 clubs, the NWSL Championship is set to take place this Saturday, showcasing the league’s continued growth and popularity.
With Clark’s participation, the pursuit for a women’s professional soccer team in Cincinnati gains momentum and aims to inspire the next generation of female athletes.
Source
Photo credit www.wishtv.com
