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Brooklyn, Spokane kick off double matchweek in New York | Week 3 Match Previews

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Brooklyn FC vs. Spokane Zephyr FC 

Venue: Maimonides Park; Brooklyn, NY

Kickoff: Wednesday, September 3; 7:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Clear, 63°   

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Brooklyn (1-1-0) is coming off its first loss of the season after falling 1-0 to Dallas. Spokane (0-1-1) most recently drew 2-2 against DC Power. 
  • Brooklyn and Spokane each have a 1-1-2 record against each other. The teams played to a 2-2 draw when they last met at Maimonides Park on May 10, 2025. 
  • Jordan Thompson (BKN) will face off against three of her former Gonzaga teammates on Spokane: Sophia Braun, Kelsey Oyler and Charley Boone. 
  • Alice Barbieri (BKN) will play against her former Oregon teammate Ally Cook (SPK). 
  • Ginger Fontenot will play against her former team for the first time since joining Spokane this summer. 
  • Charley Boone (SPK) and Annie Williams (BKN) will face each other for the first time since playing this past USL W League season together on Minnesota Aurora FC. 

Players to Watch

BKN – Sofia Lewis: The Jacksonville native will be one to watch as Brooklyn attempts to get back in the winning column after being shut out last week. The striker leads the team in shots and had multiple close looks in Brooklyn’s last home match. 

SPK – Lena Silano: The forward got on the scoresheet for Spokane twice last weekend, recording a brace in a three-minute period to help the team take home a point. Both goals came from headers, showing the aerial threat Silano can pose to Brooklyn’s backline. 

 Brooklyn FC Spokane Zephyr FC 
Head Coach Tomás Tengarrinha Josh McAllister (interim) 
Record 1-1-0 0-1-1 
Standings 3rd 8th 

Carolina Ascent FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC 

Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium; Charlotte, NC 

Kickoff: Saturday, September 6, 7:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Cloudy with chance of storms, 67°   

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Carolina Ascent (0-0-1) is coming off a 2-2 road draw against Fort Lauderdale. Tampa Bay (0-2-0) is looking for its first win of the season after dropping back-to-back matches. 
  • Carolina has never beaten Tampa Bay and has a 0-2-2 record against the reigning champs. The last time the teams met, they drew 1-1 at American Legion Memorial Stadium on May 17, 2025. 
  • Gabby Provenzano (TB) will face off against former Rutgers teammate Meagan McClelland (CAR). 
  • Audrey Harding (CAR) will play against her former UNC Wilmington teammate Sydney Schneider (TB). 
  • Tampa Bay Sun has not been shutout in its last 18 regular season matches and 20 matches, including postseason.  
  • Saturday will be Carolina Ascent’s first match at home this season. The Ascent’s home record last season was 7-2-5.  

Players to Watch

TB – Sandrine Gaillard: The Swiss midfielder and summer signing came out swinging last week, finding the back of the net in her debut for the Sun against Sporting JAX. Gaillard joins the team with a wealth of experience that will only bolster the attacking presence for Tampa.  

CAR – Maddie Mercado: Coming to the Ascent this summer on loan from the NWSL’s Seattle Reign, the midfielder already wrote her name in the history books with the fastest goal in league history last weekend. Mercado skillset in front of goal is adding to a Carolina attacking unit that scored the most goals of any team last season. 

 Carolina Ascent FC Tampa Bay Sun FC 
Head Coach Philip Poole Denise Schilte-Brown 
Record 0-0-1 0-2-0 
Standings 8th 9th 

Sporting JAX vs. Dallas Trinity FC 

Venue: Hodges Stadium UNF; Jacksonville, FL 

Kickoff: Saturday, September 6, 7:30 p.m. ET 

Weather: Sunny, 74° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Both teams enter Week 3 coming off a win. Sporting JAX won 3-2 against Tampa Bay, and Dallas won 1-0 against Brooklyn. 
  • This is the first meeting between Sporting JAX and Dallas. 
  • Dallas is the only team in the league to win both of its opening two matches. 
  • Caroline Kelly (DAL) will play against her former Brooklyn FC teammate Grace Phillpotts (JAX). Both players competed with Brooklyn in the spring of last season. 

Players to Watch

JAX– Ashlyn Puerta: The 18-year-old made club history last week, taking down the reigning champs for Sporting JAX’s first-ever win. The midfielder recorded the club’s first-ever brace as well, converting from the penalty spot then slotting home a goal from a tight angle just minutes after. 

DAL – Wayny Balata: Joining Dallas from Spokane Zephyr this season, the Canadian midfielder has been both an attacking threat and critical playmaker for the Trinity already, finding the back of the net against her former side to help Dallas to a 2-1 season opener victory and making an assist on the game-winning goal for last week’s 1-0 victory over Brooklyn FC.  

 Sporting JAX Dallas Trinity FC 
Head Coach Stacey Balaam Chris Petrucelli 
Record 1-1-0 2-0-0 
Standings 4th 1st 

Spokane Zephyr FC vs. Fort Lauderdale United FC 

Venue: ONE Spokane Stadium; Spokane, WA 

Kickoff: Saturday, September 6, 9:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Cloudy, 66° 

Broadcast: Peackocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Saturday will be Spokane’s second match of the week after drawing 1-1 against Brooklyn on Wednesday. 
  • Fort Lauderdale (0-0-2) will have its first road test after earning draws against Lexington and Carolina. 
  • Fort Lauderdale has never lost to Spokane with a 1-0-3 record. The teams drew 1-1 at ONE Spokane Stadium in the very last match of the regular season in which Fort Lauderdale earned a playoff spot and eliminated Spokane. 

Players to Watch

SPK – Sarah McCoy: One of last season’s four Ironwomen, McCoy continues to hold down the backline for Spokane. The center back leads the team in clearances (8) and passing accuracy (88.9%) on 117 completed passes. 

FTL – Ella Simpson: The defender got on the attacking end last weekend, scoring the equalizer off a header from a free kick. Simpson has played every minute of both matches thus far and will play a key role in helping Fort Lauderdale earn its first clean sheet of the season. 

 Spokane Zephyr Fort Lauderdale United FC 
Head Coach Josh McAllister (interim) Tyrone Mears 
Record 0-1-2 0-0-2 
Standings 6th 5th 

Lexington SC vs. Brooklyn FC 

Venue: Lexington SC Stadium; Lexington, KY 

Kickoff: Sunday, September 7, 2:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Partly cloudy, 75° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Sunday will be Brooklyn’s second match of the week after drawing 1-1 against Spokane on Wednesday. 
  • Lexington (0-0-1) will return to action after having Week 2 off. The team drew 3-3 against Fort Lauderdale in Week 1. 
  • Lexington has never beaten Brooklyn and has a 0-2-2 record against them. In their last meeting, the teams drew 1-1 at Maimonides Park on April 19, 2025. 

Players to Watch

LEX– McKenzie Weinert: The striker showcased her clinical finishing skills in Lexington’s first match of the season, scoring the second goal in the team’s comeback against Fort Lauderdale. Whether Weinert is in the starting lineup or coming off the bench, she provides a spark of energy to the team’s attack. 

BKN – Bre Norris: Norris currently leads all goalkeepers in saves (7) while conceding just two goals across Brooklyn’s opening matches. Norris commands the team from the net and has come up big in moments when the squad needs her most.  

 Lexington SC Brooklyn FC 
Head Coach Masaki Hemmi Tomás Tengarrinha 
Record 0-0-1 1-1-1 
Standings 7th 3rd 

Can Sporting JAX build off its first win? | News & Notes Week 3

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WEEK 3 SCHEDULE

Wednesday, September 3
Brooklyn FC vs. Spokane Zephyr FC, 7:00 p.m. ET

Saturday, September 6
Carolina Ascent FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC, 7:00 p.m. ET
Sporting JAX vs. Dallas Trinity FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Spokane Zephyr FC vs. Fort Lauderdale United FC, 9:00 p.m. ET

Sunday, September 7
Lexington SC vs. Brooklyn FC, 2:00 p.m. ET

REWIND: WEEK 2 NOTES

DALLAS GETS IT DONE
Dallas Trinity is the only team to win both of its first two matches this season, placing them atop the table with six points.

GOAL + ASSIST
Five players have recorded at least one goal and one assist to start the season:

  • DAL: Wayny Balata
  • DC: Gianna Gourley
  • LEX: Allison Pantuso
  • JAX: Meg Hughes
  • SPK: Ally Cook

FASTEST GOAL
Carolina Ascent’s Maddie Mercado recorded the fastest goal in league history – scoring 43 seconds into the team’s matchup against Fort Lauderdale United.

FIRST WIN FOR JAX
Sporting JAX secures their first-ever victory in the Gainbridge Super League after an impressive 3-2 win over the defending champions Tampa Bay Sun. 18-year-old Ashlyn Puerta recorded the team’s first brace in the match.

GOAL STREAK
FTL UTD’s Kiara Locklear and TB Sun’s Carlee Giammona both scored in each of their team’s first two matches this season.

WEEK 3 STORYLINES

HOME OPENERS
This weekend Carolina, Lexington and Spokane will all play at home for the first time this season.

TAMPA’S TOUGH START
Tampa Bay has opened the season with two losses, tying the club record for most consecutive losses. Last weekend’s result against Sporting JAX was only the third-ever loss for the Sun at home. The team will play on Saturday against Carolina Ascent, which the Sun has never lost a match against.

UPCOMING MILESTONES & ACTIVE STREAKS

Upcoming Milestones
Approaching 15 all-time regular season goals
Allie Thornton (DAL) – 14
Mia Corbin (CAR) – 12

Approaching 10 all-time regular season assists
Emina Ekić (LEX) – 8
Jill Aguilera (CAR) – 7

Approaching 10 all-time regular season clean sheets
Hope Hisey (SPK) – 9

Active Streaks
Consecutive regular season minutes played across seasons
Amber Wisner (DAL) – 2700
Sarah Clark (SPK) – 2700

Consecutive regular season matches with a goal across seasons
Tampa Bay Sun FC – 18
Fort Lauderdale United FC – 10
Spokane Zephyr FC – 7

WEEK 3 DISCIPLINE REPORT

TAMPA, Fla. – The following is the Gainbridge Super League’s discipline report for Week 3 of the 2025/26 season:

Brooklyn FC Assistant Coach Francisca Ferreira has been suspended one game following her red card for a second caution against Dallas Trinity FC on August 30, 2025. Ferreira is unable to be on the sideline for Brooklyn’s contest against Spokane Zephyr FC on September 3, 2025.

WEEK 3 MATCH NOTES

BKNvSPK

  • Brooklyn (1-1-0) is coming off its first loss of the season after falling 1-0 to Dallas. Spokane (0-1-1) most recently drew 2-2 against DC Power.
  • Brooklyn and Spokane each have a 1-1-2 record against each other. The teams played to a 2-2 draw when they last met at Maimonides Park on May 10, 2025.
  • Jordan Thompson (BKN) will face off against three of her former Gonzaga teammates on Spokane: Sophia Braun, Kelsey Oyler and Charley Boone.
  • Alice Barbieri (BKN) will play against her former Oregon teammate Ally Cook (SPK).
  • Ginger Fontenot will play against her former team for the first time since joining Spokane this summer.
  • Charley Boone (SPK) and Annie Williams (BKN) will face each other for the first time since playing this past USL W League season together on Minnesota Aurora FC.

CARvTB

  • Carolina Ascent (0-0-1) is coming off a 2-2 road draw against Fort Lauderdale. Tampa Bay (0-2-0) is looking for its first win of the season after dropping back to back matches.
  • Carolina has never beaten Tampa Bay and has a 0-2-2 record against the reigning champs. The last time the teams met, they drew 1-1 at American Legion Memorial Stadium on May 17, 2025.
  • Gabby Provenzano (TB) will face off against former Rutgers teammate Meagan McClelland (CAR).
  • Audrey Harding (CAR) will play against her former UNC Wilmington teammate Sydney Schneider (TB).

JAXvDAL

  • Both teams enter Week 3 coming off a win. Sporting JAX won 3-2 against Tampa Bay, and Dallas won 1-0 against Brooklyn.
  • This is the first meeting between Sporting JAX and Dallas.
  • Caroline Kelly (DAL) will play against her former Brooklyn FC teammate Grace Phillpotts (JAX). Both players competed with Brooklyn in the spring of last season.

SPKvFTL

  • This will be Spokane’s second match of the week after playing Brooklyn on Wednesday.
  • Fort Lauderdale (0-0-2) will have its first road test after earning draws against Lexington and Carolina.
  • Fort Lauderdale has never lost to Spokane with a 1-0-3 record. The teams drew 1-1 at ONE Spokane Stadium in the very last match of the regular season in which Fort Lauderdale earned a playoff spot and eliminated Spokane.

LEXvBKN

  • This will be Brooklyn’s second match of the week after playing Spokane on Wednesday.
  • Lexington (0-0-1) will return to action after having Week 2 off. The team drew 3-3 against Fort Lauderdale in Week 1.
  • Lexington has never beaten Brooklyn and has a 0-2-2 record against them. In their last meeting, the teams drew 1-1 at Maimonides Park on April 19, 2025.

Carolina Ascent makes season debut against Fort Lauderdale | Week 2 Match Previews

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DC Power FC vs. Spokane Zephyr 

Venue: Audi Field; Washington, D.C. 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 30; 7:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Sunny, 78° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • DC Power (1-0-0) is coming off a 3-1 win over Sporting JAX. Spokane Zephyr (0-1-0) most recently lost 2-1 against Dallas Trinity. 
  • DC Power has never won against Spokane Zephyr (0W-3L-1D). The last time the teams met at Audi Field, Spokane won 2-1 behind two goals from Emina Ekić. 
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time Sydney Cummings will play against her former club since joining DC Power. 
  • Former University of Central Florida teammates Mollie Rouse (SPK) and Madison Murnin (DC) will face off against each other. 
  • Sarah McCoy (SPK) will compete against her former University of Virginia teammates Claire Constant and Alexis Theoret (DC). 

Players to Watch

DC – Jaydah Bedoya: Ecuadorian international Jaydah Bedoya found the back of the net in her debut with DC Power last weekend. The forward recorded three goals and an assist last season with Carolina Ascent and will be a great addition to DC’s attack this year. 

SPK – Ally Cook: The forward scored Spokane’s first goal of the season in last weekend’s clash with Dallas Trinity and will be a massive attacking presence for Spokane this season. Cook has shown to be a versatile scorer with speed that will be challenging for DC’s backline to battle. 

 DC Power Spokane Zephyr 
Head Coach Omid Namazi Josh McAllister (interim) 
Record 1-0-0 0-1-0 
Standings 1st 7th 

Fort Lauderdale United FC vs. Carolina Ascent FC 

Venue: Beyond Bancard Field; Fort Lauderdale, FL 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 30; 7:30 p.m. ET 

Weather: Thunderstorms, 90° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Saturday will be Carolina Ascent’s first match of the new season. 
  • Fort Lauderdale United is coming off a 3-3 draw last week against Lexington SC. 
  • FTL UTD has a 3W-2L-0D all-time record against Carolina. The last time the team met was in the playoffs semifinals, where FTL won 2-1 on the road. 
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time Kat Gonzalez will play against her former club since joining Fort Lauderdale. 
  • Former Wake Forest teammates Laurel Ansbrow (FTL) and Emily Morris (CAR) will face off against each other. 
  • Former UNC Charlotte teammates Kiara Locklear (FTL) and Macey Bader (CAR) will face off against each other. 
  • Ansbrow and Bader were also former teammates in the USL W League with NC Courage U23. 
  • Fort Lauderdale is on a nine-match regular season scoring streak dating back to last season. The team was last held scoreless on April 5 against Tampa Bay Sun. 

Players to Watch

FTL – Jasmine Hamid: Back for her second season with Fort Lauderdale, Jasmine Hamid is already making an impact after scoring the equalizer last weekend against Lexington SC from the penalty spot in stoppage time.  

CAR – Jill Aguilera: Reigning Defender of the Year and Golden Playmaker Jill Aguilera was a crucial part of Carolina’s success last season. The outside back’s ability to shut down opponents in the defensive third while creating chances in the attack makes her a force to be reckoned with.  

 Fort Lauderdale United FC Carolina Ascent FC 
Head Coach Tyrone Mears Phillip Poole 
Record 0-0-1 0-0-0 
Standings 4th 6th 

Tampa Bay Sun FC vs. Sporting JAX 

Venue: Suncoast Credit Union Field; Tampa, FL 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 30; 8:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Scattered Thunderstorms, 85° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Both teams are coming off losses from Week 1. Tampa Bay lost 2-1 to Brooklyn FC, and Sporting JAX fell 3-1 to DC Power FC. 
  • This will be the first time these two Florida teams meet. 
  • Former Duke Blue Devils Mackenzie Pluck (TB) and Sophie Jones (JAX) will face off against each other. 
  • Georgia Brown (JAX) will compete against her former University of South Florida teammate Vivianne Bessette (TB) and Head Coach Denise Schilte-Brown. 
  • Tampa Bay continued its scoring streak last weekend with a 90+4’ goal from Carlee Giammona. The team has now not been shutout in its last 17 regular season matches and 19 matches, including postseason.  

Players to Watch

TB – Carlee Giammona: Carlee Giammona was a consistent presence for the Sun last season, playing in all 30 matches and scoring eight goals. The midfielder prevented a shut out last weekend with her stoppage time goal against Brooklyn, showing her scoring versatility and dominance inside the box. 

JAX – Jade Pennock: The English forward made history last weekend, scoring Sporting JAX’s first-ever goal in the opening moments of the match. Pennock’s experience brings a veteran presence to the team, and the group will need her skills to take down Tampa Bay’s defense. 

 Tampa Bay Sun Sporting JAX 
Head Coach Denise Schilte-Brown Stacey Balaam 
Record 0-1-0 0-1-0 
Standings 8th 9th 

Dallas Trinity FC vs. Brooklyn FC 

Venue: Cotton Bowl; Dallas, TX 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 30; 8:30 p.m. ET 

Weather: Cloudy with scattered showers, 82° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Both teams are coming off wins from Week 1. Dallas won 2-1 against Spokane Zephyr, and Brooklyn FC won 2-1 against Tampa Bay Sun. 
  • The teams have a split 2-2-0 record against each other. Brooklyn won the first two meetings, and Dallas won the most recent two matches. 

Players to Watch

DAL – Allie Thornton: Last season’s Golden Boot Winner Allie Thornton scored the game-winning goal to earn Trinity a 2-1 victory in last week’s match against Spokane Zephyr. Thornton’s aerial presence as well as her ability to shoot from distance makes her one of the best strikers in the league.  

BKN – Annie Williams: Also scoring a game-winner last weekend was former South Dakota State standout Annie Williams. The defender has years of experience overseas and showed in Week 1 her ability to make an immediate impact for Brooklyn. 

 Dallas Trinity FC Brooklyn FC 
Head Coach Chris Petrucelli Tomás Tengarrinha 
Record 1-0-0 1-0-0 
Standings 2nd 3rd 

Which newcomers had the best performances of Week 1?

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Which players shined in their Gainbridge Super League debuts? 

Week 1 of the 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League season saw come-from-behind wins, an upset of the reigning champs and a slew of new players who made their league debuts. 

Before kickoff, we highlighted a few newcomers that we had our eyes on, but here are the four who impressed us the most in Week 1: 

Bre Norris, Brooklyn FC 

Both of Brooklyn’s goals in its home opener were from newcomers Catherine Zimmerman and Annie Williams. But even the scorers admitted the biggest performance of the match was from goalkeeper Bre Norris.  

“I thought Bre was a brick wall tonight,” said Zimmerman. “A lot of credit to her. A lot of credit to the back line. I think from Bre to the back line, everyone was really organized and just locked in.” 

Brooklyn has an entirely new goalkeeping unit from its inaugural campaign, so it was up in the air on who would get the starting nod in goal between Norris, Kelsey Daugherty and Nicolette Pasquarella. However, Norris notched four saves, including on two Tampa Bay breakaways, that were critical for the team to earn its first-ever win at Maimonides Park. 

Kelli Van Treeck, Fort Lauderdale United FC 

Veteran players dominated the highest-scoring match of the weekend, from 2024/25 Player of the Year Emina Ekic recording two assists and Fort Lauderdale’s Jasmine Hamid converting a penalty kick to earn her side a point in second-half stoppage time. Amongst those stellar displays, though, new United midfielder Kelli Van Treeck made her mark. 

Fort Lauderdale had a big gap to fill after transferring Addie McCain to Lexington, but perhaps the team found a replacement in the former Atlantic Sun Player of the Year. The midfielder intercepted a Lexington goal kick and played a pass inside the box for an easy finish to set up the team’s second goal of the night, connecting with her former Lipscomb teammate Kiara Locklear. Van Treeck also recorded three shots, including what would have been FTL UTD’s third goal, had it not hit off the woodwork. 

Maya McCutcheon, Dallas Trinity FC 

Dallas kept most of its starters from last season, but its biggest losses were defenders Jenna Walker, who retired after starting in all 23 of her appearances with Trinity, and Julia Dorsey, who ranked second on the team in minutes played (2,373). With a team that tends to play with a back three, finding cohesion along the backline is essential. Based on Saturday’s match, Maya McCutcheon looks to fit right into that system. 

Despite conceding first from an incredible finish by Spokane’s Ally Cook, Dallas’ defense responded well in the second half. McCutcheon finished with three clearances, two tackles, an interception and 86% passing accuracy rate in 90 minutes. McCutcheon and another newcomer Samar Guidry in a backline with All-League center back Hannah Davison will make for strong defensive unit throughout this season. 

Alexis Theoret, DC Power FC 

DC Power picked up right where it left off at the end of last season when it comes to offensive production. With players like Gianna Gourley, Loza Abera and new transfer Jaydah Bedoya, the team has seemed to figure out how to find the back of the net. However, bringing in a holding midfielder like Alexis Theoret might be the key to bridging the gap between the defense and its attackers up top. 

The University of Virginia alum recorded seven tackles, four interceptions, three clearances and one chance created in her professional debut. Theoret excelled at winning the ball in DC’s defensive third, and she knows when to either hold until the team resets or immediately look to go forward and quickly transition into the attack. Her years of playing experience with center back Claire Constant also strengthens the team’s defense, an area where it struggled last season. 

Which teams are on scoring streaks? | News & Notes Week 2

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WEEK 2 SCHEDULE

Saturday, August 30
DC Power FC vs. Spokane Zephyr FC, 7:00 p.m. ET
Fort Lauderdale United FC vs. Carolina Ascent FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Tampa Bay Sun FC vs. Sporting JAX, 8:00 p.m. ET
Dallas Trinity FC vs. Brooklyn FC, 8:30 p.m. ET

REWIND: WEEK 1 NOTES

TWO FOR EMINA
Lexington’s Emina Ekić had two assists on Saturday against Fort Lauderdale. It was the second time she recorded two assists in a single match, becoming the only player in league history to record multiple games with multiple assists. She is now the current league leader all-time in assists with eight total.

TEAMMATES TURNED FOES
Addie McCain (LEX) and Wayny Balata (DAL) both scored against their former clubs in their debut with their new teams. McCain headed in a goal in the 63rd minute for the first of three goals against Fort Lauderdale. Balata also headed home her goal, equalizing against Spokane Zephyr in the 48th minute.

ALL AROUND ACTION
All eight teams in action scored in the league’s opening weekend and every match featured a header goal.

BROOKLYN ON TOP
Brooklyn FC earned its first win at Maimonides Park on Saturday after going 0W-3L-4D at home last spring. The team also remains undefeated against reigning champions Tampa Bay Sun FC (3W-0L-2D) after winning 2-1 on Saturday.

BAGGED A BRACE
Gianna Gourley scored two goals on Saturday, her second time recording a brace with DC Power. She is the first player in club history to record multiple braces and the sixth person in the league to record multiple braces.

MULTI-GOAL WIN
DC Power scored three goals on Saturday, tying its record for most goals in a single match. The 3-1 win marked the first time DC had beaten an opponent by multiple goals.

FIRST FOR JAX
England native Jade Pennock scored the first-ever goal for Sporting JAX in the seventh minute of the team’s inaugural match against DC Power.

WEEK 2 STORYLINES

CAROLINA IS BACK
Last season’s Players’ Shield winners will begin their 2025/26 campaign this weekend against Fort Lauderdale United FC. The last time Carolina Ascent played there, the Ascent won 5-2 in one of the highest scoring matches in league history.

REIGNING CHAMPS RETURN HOME 
Tampa Bay Sun will return home on Saturday to host its new Florida competitor Sporting JAX. The Sun has the best home record in the league (10W-2L-4D, including playoff matches), and it has not lost at home since March 19.

LOAN RECALL
Dallas Trinity midfielder Deb Abiodun has been called back by the Washington Spirit from her loan. Abiodun made 7 starts in 13 appearances with Dallas in the 24/25 regular and postseason. She played all 90 minutes in the team’s opener on Saturday.

UPCOMING MILESTONES & ACTIVE STREAKS

Upcoming Milestones
Approaching 15 all-time regular season goals
Allie Thornton (DAL) – 14
Mia Corbin (CAR) – 12


Approaching 10 all-time regular season assists
Emina Ekić (LEX) – 8
Jill Aguilera (CAR) – 7


Approaching 10 all-time regular season clean sheets
Hope Hisey (SPK) – 9

Active Streaks
Consecutive regular season minutes played across seasons
Allison Pantuso (LEX) – 2610
Amber Wisner (DAL) – 2610
Sarah Clark (SPK) – 2610

Consecutive regular season matches with a goal across seasons
Tampa Bay Sun FC – 17
Fort Lauderdale United FC – 9
Spokane Zephyr FC – 6

WEEK 2 DISCIPLINE REPORT

TAMPA, Fla. – There are no new suspensions to report. 

WEEK 2 MATCH NOTES

DCvSPK

  • DC Power (1-0-0) is coming off a 3-1 win over Sporting JAX. Spokane Zephyr (0-1-0) most recently lost 2-1 against Dallas Trinity.
  • DC Power has never won against Spokane Zephyr (0W-3L-1D). The last time the teams met at Audi Field, Spokane won 2-1 behind two goals from Emina Ekić.
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time Sydney Cummings will play against her former club since leaving Spokane to join DC Power.
  • Former University of Central Florida teammates Mollie Rouse (SPK) and Madison Murnin (DC) will face off against each other.
  • Sarah McCoy (SPK) will compete against her former University of Virginia teammates Claire Constant and Alexis Theoret (DC).

FTLvCAR

  • Saturday will be Carolina Ascent’s first match of the new season.
  • Fort Lauderdale United is coming off a 3-3 draw last week against Lexington SC.
  • FTL UTD has a 3W-2L-0D all-time record against Carolina. The last time the team met was in the playoffs semifinals, where FTL won 2-1 on the road.
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time Kat Gonzalez will play against her former club since leaving Carolina to join Fort Lauderdale.
  • Former Wake Forest teammates Laurel Ansbrow (FTL) and Emily Morris (CAR) will face off against each other.
  • Former UNC Charlotte teammates Kiara Locklear (FTL) and Macey Bader (CAR) will face off against each other.
  • Ansbrow and Bader were also former teammates in the USL W League with NC Courage U23.
  • Fort Lauderdale is on a nine-match regular season scoring streak dating back to last season. The team was last held scoreless on April 5 against Tampa Bay Sun.

TBvJAX

  • Both teams are coming off losses from Week 1. Tampa Bay lost 2-1 to Brooklyn FC, and Sporting JAX fell 3-1 to DC Power FC.
  • This will be the first time these two Florida teams meet.
  • Former Duke Blue Devils Mackenzie Pluck (TB) and Sophie Jones (JAX) will face off against each other.
  • Georgia Brown (JAX) will compete against her former University of South Florida teammate Vivianne Bessette (TB) and Head Coach Denise Schilte-Brown.
  • Tampa Bay continued its scoring streak last weekend with a 90+4’ goal from Carlee Giammona. The team has now not been shutout in its last 17 regular season matches and 19 matches, including postseason.

DALvBKN

  • Both teams are coming off wins from Week 1. Dallas won 2-1 against Spokane Zephyr, and Brooklyn FC won 2-1 against Tampa Bay Sun.
  • The teams have a split 2-2-0 record against each other. Brooklyn won the first two meetings, and Dallas won the most recent two matches.

Sporting JAX debut headlines 2025/26 season opener | Week 1 Match Previews

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Sporting JAX vs. DC Power FC 

Venue: Hodges Stadium; Jacksonville, FL 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 23; 8:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Thunderstorms, 75° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Sporting JAX will make its league debut on Saturday. 
  • Omid Namazi will make his coaching debut with DC Power. 

Players to Watch 

JAX – Sophie Jones: Headlining Sporting JAX’s inaugural season is captain and former Duke Blue Devil Sophie Jones. The midfielder has shined at the youth, college, professional and international levels and will bring an experienced and composed presence to the pitch. 

DC – Gianna Gourley: Gourley was the spark behind DC’s impressive spring slate last season, leading the team with seven goals. The striker has speed and agility, and her scoring versatility will be the biggest challenge for Jacksonville’s defense. 

 Sporting JAX DC Power FC 
Head Coach Stacey Balaam Omid Namazi 
Club Record – –
Standings – –

Brooklyn FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC 

Venue: Maimonides Park; Brooklyn, NY 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 23; 7:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Clear skies, 69° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know 

  • Brooklyn has never lost to Tampa Bay, holding a 2-0-2 record against the reigning champs. 
  • Brooklyn finished in 6th place last season (10-9-9, 39 pts). Tampa Bay finished second in the league (12-6-10, 46 pts) and went on to win the 2024/25 title. 
  • Brooklyn has yet to win a match at Maimonides Park, dating back to its home opener at Coney Island on March 15, 2025. 
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time Mackenzie Pluck will play against her former club since leaving Brooklyn to join Tampa Bay this season. 
  • Tampa Bay has not been shut out in its last 18 regular season and playoff matches. The team has scored at least one goal, averaging 1.72 goals per game, since December 14, 2024. 

Players to Watch

BKN – Catherine Zimmerman: Zimmerman is returning to the US after an impressive career in both the NWSL and Australian A-League. The forward is a known goal-scorer who will bring some much-needed firepower to Brooklyn’s offense. 

TB – Sydny Nasello: Last season’s Final MVP with back with Tampa Bay as it looks to kick off another title run. Nasello was one of the most dynamic midfielders in the league who is excellent with the ball at her feet and able to get past defenders before setting up her teammates inside the box. 

 Brooklyn FC Tampa Bay Sun FC 
Head Coach Tomás Tengarrinha Denise Schilte-Brown 
Club Record ––
Standings ––

Fort Lauderdale United FC vs. Lexington SC 

Venue: Beyond Bancard Field; Fort Lauderdale, FL 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 23; 7:30 p.m. ET 

Weather: Thunderstorms, 78° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Fort Lauderdale has a 3-1-0 record against Lexington. 
  • Fort Lauderdale finished in 4th place last season (11-8-9, 42 pts), and Lexington finished 8th (4-18-6, 18 pts). 
  • The last time Fort Lauderdale hosted Lexington, the team won 2-0 behind goals from Jasmine Hamid and Addie McCain. 
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time former FTL players Addie McCain and Tati Fung will play against their old club since joining Lexington this season. 
  • Lexington is on a 10-match winless streak dating back to last season. The team last earned a win on March 9, 2025 against DC Power. 

Players to Watch

FTL – Kiara Locklear: Fort Lauderdale’s No. 9 is back with the squad to lead the offense in its second season. Locklear ranked first on the team in assists (4) and third in goals (7) last year, proving how crucial she is in the team’s attack whether it’s making runs inside the box or sending in crosses to her teammates like Jasmine Hamid and Sh’Nia Gordon. 

LEX – Addie McCain: All eyes will be on Addie McCain as she makes her return to south Florida. The midfielder dominated in nearly every statistic last season, earning a spot on the All-League First Team. Her ability to win the ball, set up her teammates and finish from inside the box makes her one of the best offseason pickups for Lexington. 

 Fort Lauderdale United FC Lexington SC 
Head Coach Tyrone Mears Masaki Hemmi 
Club Record ––
Standings ––

Dallas Trinity FC vs. Spokane Zephyr FC 

Venue: Cotton Bowl; Dallas, TX 

Kickoff: Saturday, August 23; 8:30 p.m. ET 

Weather: Partly cloudy, 75° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Spokane has a 2-1-1 record against Dallas. 
  • Dallas finished in 3rd place last season (12-9-7, 43 pts), and Spokane finished in 5th place (11-8-9, 42 pts). 
  • The last time Spokane played at Dallas, the visitors won 1-0 behind a goal from Katie Murray. 
  • Spokane goalkeeper Hope Hisey, last season’s Goalkeeper of the Year, is one clean sheet away from becoming the first player in league history to reach 10 shutouts. 
  • Dallas striker Allie Thornton, last season’s Golden Boot winner, is two goals away from becoming the first player in league history to reach 15 goals scored. 
  • Spokane is on a five-match unbeaten streak (3-0-2) dating back to last season, averaging 2 goals per game. 

Players to Watch

DAL – Rylee Foster: Filling in the goalkeeper position following the departure of Madison White is Rylee Foster, former West Virginia Mountaineer and Canadian international. Foster is bringing years of experience from England and Australia to help Dallas return to the playoffs this year. 

SPK – Hope Hisey: In the goal on the other end of the pitch is 2024/25 Goalkeeper of the Year, Hope Hisey. Hisey leads the league in saves and clean sheets, and she will have the task of shutting down Dallas’ offensive threats, most notably Golden Boot winner Allie Thornton. 

 Dallas Trinity FC Spokane Zephyr FC 
Head Coach Chris Petrucelli Josh McAllister (interim)   
Club Record –– 
Standings ––

Eight teams set to kick off in season opener | News & Notes Week 1

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WEEK 1 SCHEDULE

Saturday, August 23
Brooklyn FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC, 7:00 p.m. ET 
Fort Lauderdale United FC vs. Lexington SC, 7:30 p.m. ET 
Sporting Club Jacksonville vs. DC Power FC, 8:00 p.m. ET 
Dallas Trinity FC vs. Spokane Zephyr FC, 8:30 p.m. ET 

REWIND: OFFSEASON

PLAYER MOVEMENT 
Over 100 players signed to a Gainbridge Super League team during the offseason, including 24 players on Sporting JAX’s inaugural roster and 20 intra-league transfers. View the full list on the Signings Tracker. 

NEW COACH APPOINTMENTS 
Six of the clubs will feature a new head coach for the upcoming season: 

  • Brooklyn FC: Tomás Tengarrinha 
  • Dallas Trinity FC: Chris Petrucelli 
  • DC Power FC: Omid Namazi  
  • Lexington SC: Masaki Hemmi  
  • Spokane Zephyr FC: Josh McAllister (interim) 
  • Sporting JAX: Stacey Balaam 

DALLAS’ CHAMPION 
Dallas Trinity’s Deb Abiodun helped the Nigerian Women’s National Team to its tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in July, winning 3-2 against hosts Morocco in the Final. Abiodun played in five of six matches throughout the tournament for a total of 229 minutes of action. 

YOUNGEST PRO 
Carolina Ascent FC signed 15-year-old Stella Spitzer to a multi-year contract, becoming the youngest player in the league to sign a professional contract. Spitzer joined the Ascent in 2024 on an Academy contract, making her debut with the team on October 19, 2024. 

WEEK 1 STORYLINES

WELCOME SPORTING JAX  
Sporting JAX will officially kick off their Gainbridge Super League campaign as the league’s single expansion team. Under Head Coach Stacy Balaam, who most recently served as the Associate Head Coach at Vanderbilt, the team will open the season at home against DC Power FC.   

NEW SEASON, NEW CREST 
Twenty players transferred from one club to another within the league for the new season. Most notably is 2024/25 Player of the Year Emina Ekić, who departed from Spokane Zephyr FC to join Lexington SC. Read about the five biggest intra-league transfers here. 

UPCOMING MILESTONES & ACTIVE STREAKS

Upcoming Milestones 
Approaching 15 regular season goals 
Allie Thornton (DAL) – 13  
Mia Corbin (CAR) – 12  

Approaching 10 regular season assists 
Jill Aguilera (CAR) – 7  

Approaching 10 regular season clean sheets 
Hope Hisey (SPK) – 9  

Active Streaks
Consecutive regular season games undefeated  
Spokane Zephyr FC – 5  
Tampa Bay Sun FC – 4  

Consecutive regular season minutes played 
Allison Pantuso (LEX) – 2520 
Amber Wisner (DAL) – 2520 
Sarah Clark (SPK) – 2520 
Taylor Porter (CAR) – 2520 

WEEK 1 DISCIPLINE REPORT

TAMPA, Fla. – The following is the Gainbridge Super League’s discipline report for Week 1 of the 2025/26 season:

Spokane Zephyr FC’s Thais Reiss has been suspended for one game following her red card for dissent by word or action against Dallas Trinity FC on October 6, 2024. Reiss will be unavailable for selection in Spokane’s contest against Dallas Trinity FC on August 23, 2025.

WEEK 1 MATCH NOTES

JAXvDC 

  • Sporting JAX will make its league debut on Saturday at Hodges Stadium. 
  • DC Power finished in 7th place last season (5-14-9, 24 pts). 

BKNvTB 

  • Brooklyn has never lost to Tampa Bay, holding a 2-0-2 record against the reigning champs. 
  • Brooklyn finished in 6th place last season (10-9-9, 39 pts). Tampa Bay finished second in the league (12-6-10, 46 pts) and went on to win the 2024/25 title. 
  • Brooklyn has yet to win a match at Maimonides Park, dating back to its home opener at Coney Island on March 15, 2025. 
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time Mackenzie Pluck will play against her former club since leaving Brooklyn to join Tampa Bay this season. 
  • Tampa Bay has not been shut out in its last 18 regular season and playoff matches. The team has scored at least one goal, averaging 1.72 goals per game, since December 14, 2024. 

FTLvLEX 

  • Fort Lauderdale has a 3-1-0 record against Lexington. 
  • Fort Lauderdale finished in 4th place last season (11-8-9, 42 pts), and Lexington finished 8th (4-18-6, 18 pts). 
  • The last time Fort Lauderdale hosted Lexington, the team won 2-0 behind goals from Jasmine Hamid and Addie McCain. 
  • Saturday’s match will be the first time former FTL players Addie McCain and Tati Fung will play against their old club since joining Lexington this season. 
  • Lexington is on a 10-match winless streak dating back to last season. The team last earned a win on March 9, 2025 against DC Power. 

DALvSPK 

  • Spokane has a 2-1-1 record against Dallas. 
  • Dallas finished in 3rd place last season (12-9-7, 43 pts), and Spokane finished in 5th place (11-8-9, 42 pts). 
  • The last time Spokane played at Dallas, the visitors won 1-0 behind a goal from Katie Murray. 
  • Spokane goalkeeper Hope Hisey, last season’s Goalkeeper of the Year, is one clean sheet away from becoming the first player in league history to reach 10 shutouts. 
  • Dallas striker Allie Thornton, last season’s Golden Boot winner, is two goals away from becoming the first player in league history to reach 15 goals scored. 
  • Spokane is on a five-match unbeaten streak (3-0-2) dating back to last season, averaging 2 goals per game. 

Gainbridge Super League Power Rankings – Preseason

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Which teams made the top four? 

The 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League season is finally here! This Saturday, eight of the nine clubs will take the pitch to kick off the new campaign and their hunt towards the league’s second title. 

Power Rankings will look a little different this season, with only the top four making the list, similar to the top four that will advance to the playoffs. Based on last season’s results and offseason moves, here’s who we have leading the pack. 

Note: These rankings are compiled by the Marcomms team and will reflect a mix of recent team performances and overall impressions. They’re meant to be fun, not official —they should not be interpreted as formal analysis. 

On The Move

Rank

 

Team

Change

Summary
1 Tampa Bay Sun FC
(0-0-0)
Week 1: @ BKN

The reigning champs enter at the top spot with a high potential of going back-to-back this year. Tampa Bay was firing on all cylinders and stringing together consistent performances towards the end of last season. Even with the departure of Cecilie Fløe, the team’s leader in goals and assists, the Sun is returning nearly all of its key playmakers while adding star signings in all positions on the field.
2 Carolina Ascent FC
(0-0-0)
Week 1: —

Last season’s Players’ Shield winners will be back for redemption after last year’s dissatisfying ending. Carolina had the best defensive group in the league, led by Defender of the Year Jill Aguilera and Golden Glove winner Meagan McClelland, that allowed only 24 goals and recorded 12 clean sheets. Its core group is back for the 25/26 season, and intra-league transfers like Mackenzie George and Luana Grabias will bolster its attack.
3 Lexington SC
(0-0-0)
Week 1: @ FTL

Lexington is one team we’re interested in seeing take the field this weekend. The Girls in Green finished at the bottom of the table last season, but they’ve made a 180 during the offseason. Bringing in top players from around the league like Emina Ekić, Addie McCain and Allison Pantuso and signing Head Coach Masaki Hemmi has created high standards for what Lexington can achieve this season.
4 Fort Lauderdale United FC
(0-0-0)
Week 1: vs. LEX

Fort Lauderdale always showed composure and grit in last year’s matchups, and we expect to see that again this season. FTL UTD had one of the most dynamic attacking units last year made up of Kiara Locklear, Jasmine Hamid and Sh’Nia Gordon, who are all returning this season. The team also added international talent with Sophie Harding and Madison McComasky that counteracts the club’s few departures, especially in the midfield, making for a diverse and skilled roster.