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Key Injuries
Injuries to key players can often spell disaster for a team’s season. However, for the Spirit, a deep and talented roster has proven to be the answer to injury challenges. With several players sidelined, the club showcased an impressive ability to adapt and thrive, demonstrating that a strong squad can step up when it matters most.
Co-Captain Andi Sullivan, a vital piece of the midfield puzzle, suffered a season-ending torn ACL injury in October. Olympian and Rookie of the Year Candidate Croix Bethune also suffered a season-ending injury, tearing her meniscus in September. Bethune’s injury served as a critical blow, especially given her contributions to both offensive and defensive strategies. Ouleye Sarr, a consistent presence at forward for the last two seasons, suffered a back injury in September and is still recovering. Trinity Rodman experienced a temporary back issue in October but was able to bounce back and will be ready for the playoffs.
During injury challenges, the team had to rely on existing players’ resilience and the depth of the roster including veterans Casey Krueger, Gabby Carle and Tara McKeown, newcomers Esme Morgan, Leicy Santos and Rosemonde Kouassi as well as rookies Hal Hershfelt, Makenna Morris, and Courtney Brown. These players filled roles effectively, adding a different dynamic to the team’s playstyle. This adaptability calls attention to the team’s depth but also highlights the strategies used by the coaching staff, ensuring that all available players are put in a position to succeed.
In addition to league play, the Spirit showcased our club and the city when we hosted Arsenal FC and Chelsea Football Club, two of the most storied football clubs in the world, for international friendlies this summer. On August 18, the Spirit faced Arsenal FC in front of 15,062 fans and on August 25, the club hosted an unprecedented doubleheader between the Spirit and the Kansas City Current followed by Arsenal vs. Chelsea, where 17,130 fans had the opportunity to see some of the best players in the world compete.
August Rookie of the Month
Midfielder Croix Bethune was named the NWSL Rookie of the Month, presented by Ally, for her performance during the August competition. Bethune became the first player in NWSL history to win the award in back-to-back months and for three consecutive months. Prior to her injury, she won the award four times in five months – March/April, May, June, and August.
September Best XI
Forward Trinity Rodman was named to the NWSL’s Best XI of the Month, presented by Amazon Prime, for her standout performances throughout September. The honor recognizes the top eleven players across the league for their individual performances each month. This marked Rodman’s third appearance on the league’s monthly Best XI and first since her rookie season. In four September matches, she netted two goals and two assists.
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