“It All Started With Trinity Rodman” – NWSL History in Making as Washington Spirit Lands Michigan Soccer Teen on Historic Pro Contract Leaving Fans Bewildered

NWSL will begin its new season this month on March 25. All clubs are gearing up for the season and almost ready with their roster. Meanwhile, NWSL club Washington Spirit created history on Friday. Spirit signed a midfielder on a three-year contract, making her the youngest player to ever sign a contract with the NWSL club.

Olivia Moultrie held the record earlier when she signed her contract with Portland Thorns in June 2021. She was 15 years and 286 days old when she signed the contract. Now Chloe Ricketts, the new midfielder of the Washington Spirit, is the record holder. 

Ricketts was three days younger on Thursday when she signed the contract with Spirit. She took part in the Spirit training camp in January. The midfielder is a Dexter, Michigan native, and played in the USYS National League. Ricketts played for the Michigan Tigers 07 Boys Gold side in the National League. Fans are reacting to Ricketts’ professional contract.

Fans react to Chloe Ricketts’ record in the NWSL

The official NWSL Instagram page released the news on Friday about Ricketts becoming the youngest player in NWSL history. Fans were quick to respond, and one of them reminded, “It all started with Trinity Rodman.” Rodman became the youngest player ever to be drafted in the NWSL in 2021.

One of the social media users wrote, “Wow! When her contract is up, she’ll be able to vote.” Another user highlighted the importance of signing youngsters, “This is how you build football. Sign them young to the academy, teach them, grow them.” One user was concerned, though, and asked, “Make sure she’s got the protection and support she needs.”

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Someone wrote, “I hope she make her mark from the get go.” On the other hand, another fan wished her luck, “Whatta stud. Good luck, and go make your name!!” “That’s how you know she’s got great potential,” a fan wrote. Another one hoped she continues her growth, “Wow, that’s awesome! Hopefully, she can continue to grow in the game!”

It’s a dream come true for Ricketts

Ricketts spoke about her contract with the Washington Spirit. It’s a dream come true for the teenager that she signed a professional contract with the NWSL club. She will focus on her development as a player and an individual during her time with Spirit with great resources.

She will continue her education online. She will have to live with a parent or guardian until she turns 18, per a new mechanism for the under-18s in the league. Her parent or guardian must consent before they can make the player available in an expansion draft, traded, or waived before she is 18. It will be interesting to see how the progress of the midfielder pans out in the future.

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Let us know your thoughts on the history made in the NWSL. Is it the right decision for the teenager to sign an early professional contract?