The 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup introduces the first ever million-dollar prize pool to U.S. Women’s Soccer
Washington, D.C. (05/09/2023) – The Washington Spirit will play against the Orlando Pride in its first Challenge Cup game in front of a home crowd this season. The 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup is a multi-stage in-season tournament, played concurrently with the League’s regular season, in which all 12 NWSL teams participate.
This year, in UKG’s first year as the tournament’s title sponsor, the prize pool has been raised to a record-breaking $1 million purse, after the bonus polo was increased tenfold previously in 2022. The NWSL partnered with UKG in its mission to not only bring pay equity to the world of professional sports, but also to shed light on the need for continued commitment by employers across every industry to focus on achieving equity of opportunity and equity of pay for women and other underrepresented groups.
The 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup began on April 19th and features Wednesday night matches throughout the season, concluding with the semifinals on Wednesday, September 6th and the final on Saturday, September 9th. The League’s 12 teams are split into three divisions – East, Central, and West – and each team plays in a six-game double round-robin with its group. Following the group stage, four teams advance to the semifinals on September 6th – the top team from each group, as well as the highest placing runner-up across the three divisions.
Last season, the Spirit advanced to the Challenge Cup final, losing to North Carolina in the championship. Memorably, the Spirit advanced to the final after beating OL Reign 9-8 in penalty kicks. Wednesday will be the second of the Spirit’s six group stage matches.
Tickets Still Available
Tickets are still available to Wednesday’s match, starting at just $15. As always, the Spirit’s expanded premium seating brings fans pitch side for an unparalleled experience. To never miss a match, fans can secure a season membership. Available here, the season membership grants fans access to priority seating, an exclusive Trinity Rodman bobblehead, invitations to special events throughout the season and more.
Main Concourse
At the Spirit Stage, DJ J Dream will set the mood pregame from 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. On the East Concourse, Spiritville returns with a FIFA Lounge, allowing fans to play as their favorite Spirit players. The kid’s zone, where the youngest fans can safely play on a soft play area or enjoy foosball, face painters, kick zone, a chalkboard mural and more, will be expanded for this match.
The Coast to Coast merchandise collection is Wednesday’s Item of the Match. To avoid the lines, look for an additional merchandise stand located at Section 117 on the South Concourse.
Guest Services
For the first time at Audi Field, the Washington Spirit, in partnership with DC United, recently introduced a Mamava nursing pod for parents on the East Concourse. The private, sanitary space provides comfortable seating and power outlets for pumping equipment. Keyless entry and vacancy alerts are available by downloading the Mamava app.
New this season, fans are able to communicate with Audi Field officials via text with any questions, concerns or emergencies at the following number: 202-918-3838. All ticketed fans will also receive a post-match survey following each game to allow the club to offer continual improvements on the matchday experience.
Parking
Additional parking will be made available for guests at the GEICO Parking Garage on 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, D.C, 20003. The garage will open at 5:30 p.m. and will close approximately one hour after the event. There will be 600 spaces to be utilized on a first come, first serve basis and will cost guests $50. No tailgating will be allowed, and only credit/debit is accepted.
About The Washington Spirit
The Washington Spirit is the professional women’s soccer team based at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. Launched in 2012, the Spirit plays in the National Women’s Soccer League, the premier women’s soccer competition in North America. For more information about the Spirit, visit WashingtonSpirit.com and follow the club on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
