Growth is the only constant for the NWSL. The latest development surrounding the American women’s domestic tournament is the addition of a 16th NWSL franchise. Denver will pay a record $110 million expansion fee to join the league. Even though the new team is set to join as early as 2026, this has already led Lindsey Heaps to disclose her future NWSL plans.

The USWNT skipper is currently playing at the highest level one can imagine, representing Lyon Feminin. But when your hometown finally gets a new club then there’s no doubt you will potentially imagine yourself playing there. Naturally, the Golden, Colorado native also has set her sights on the opportunity to play in the latest expansion team.

“I think anyone would want to go and play for their respective hometown team,” Heaps began while speaking on The Women’s Game podcast. For Heaps, it’s not just about her desire to be representing her hometown. Given how far she is living in Europe, joining Denver would see the former Portland Thorns star reunite with her family and loved ones.

That also comes with the joy of seeing them support each game without making long airplane trips. “I think it would just be cool, my parents don’t have to fly to a game. My whole family could come. I think it would be so special — if they want me,” added the 30-year-old. It would be like the good old days, when Heaps was trying to make it as a pro, with her family supporting her dream.

The only difference now would be to see her play in a much-experienced manner. Notably, the former Horan began her journey in the beautiful game by playing for Colorado Rush between 2005 and 2012. Having earned a couple of appearances at her home club, she finally made a breakthrough career move. Lindsey signed a six-figure deal with Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2012 directly out of high school.

But after notching 46 goals in 58 apps, Heaps’ contract was terminated by the French giants. This saw her make a return to the States in 2016, joining the Portland Thorns. Of course, the decision proved favorable as she won over six trophies with the Oregon-based club. This apparently impressed Lyon, who brought Lindsey back to France in 2022. Initially, it was a loan deal but the French side decided to sign her permanently.

This move has also been the lucky one for Heaps, having won three French division titles and other domestic tournaments. She has also won the prestigious UEFA W Champions League. This season, Lyon continues to challenge for the titles. However, it looks like Heaps is all past the European glory and would like to spend the final days of her career in her hometown. No wonder she is quite sentimental about it.

Lindsey Heaps feels ‘special’ to see Denver get NWSL expansion rights

“It makes me a little emotional,” said Heaps in the podcast, while addressing the historic milestone for his hometown. “It’s so special that Denver’s getting a team,” added the former PSG midfielder. In fact, it’s not about herself; other players who grew up in the area and dedicated themselves to youth clubs now finally have a local team to represent.

Of course, it’s natural for Heaps to get quite ecstatic about her hometown getting a new NWSL team. The veteran midfielder believes it will help the little kids of Denver not just enjoy the new NWSL side but also get inspired by the team. “I wish I had that when I was a little girl and going to see those games. How cool could that be?” concluded Heaps.

Interestingly, there is still some time before the 16th NWSL team makes its debut in 2026. Then again, one can’t deny the desperation of fans as well. So one shouldn’t be surprised to see why Heaps vocally expressed her desire to play for Denver. But of course, the USA captain would be required to hold her horses. The concluding note is that the ball is now in Denver’s court, as it remains to be seen if they fulfill Lindsey Heaps’ dream.