Ultimate Guide To The NWSL
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has grown significantly since its inception in 2012, establishing itself as the premier professional women’s soccer league in the United States.
With 14 teams competing in the 2024 season, the NWSL brings together elite athletes from across the world, captivating fans and driving the momentum of women’s sports. As the popularity of women’s leagues surges, the opportunity to accelerate growth for the NWSL has never been more promising.
Learn more about each of the NWSL’s franchises as well as the league’s future in our ultimate guide below:
1. Angel City FC (Los Angeles, CA)
Founded in 2020, Angel City FC made headlines with a star-studded ownership group that includes Natalie Portman and Serena Williams. The team’s commitment to community-driven initiatives and female empowerment has set it apart, while their on-field presence, led by players like Christen Press, has made them a competitive force.
Stadium: BMO Stadium
Inaugural Season: 2022
2. Chicago Red Stars (Bridgeview, IL)
One of the league’s original teams, the Chicago Red Stars have a rich history in women’s soccer. The Red Stars have been one of the most consistent teams in the NWSL, regularly making the playoffs and competing at a high level. They reached the NWSL Championship final in 2019 and have developed a reputation for being competitive year after year.
Stadium: SeatGeek Stadium
Inaugural Season: 2013
3. Houston Dash (Houston, TX)
The Houston Dash, established in 2014, is a team with a rapidly growing fan base. They made history by winning the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup and are part of the same ownership group of the Houston Dynamo.
Stadium: Shell Energy Stadium
Inaugural Season: 2014
4. Kansas City Current (Kansas City, MO)
After rebranding from Utah Royals FC to Kansas City Current in 2021, this team has worked hard to establish itself as a powerhouse in the league. With investments in state-of-the-art facilities, they’re a team to watch in the coming seasons. Patrick Mahomes, the star quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, is connected to the Kansas City Current through ownership. In 2023, Mahomes’ wife, Brittany Mahomes, became a co-owner of the Kansas City Current, alongside other founding owners Chris and Angie Long. Later that year, Patrick Mahomes also joined the ownership group, further solidifying the Mahomes family’s investment in the city’s sports scene.
Stadium: Children’s Mercy Park
Inaugural Season: 2021 (after rebranding from Utah Royals FC, which was founded in 2018)
5. NJ/NY Gotham FC (Harrison, NJ)
Gotham FC, formerly Sky Blue FC, is one of the league’s foundational teams, though they’ve undergone significant transformations. The club has embraced a new identity, focusing on modernizing its brand and increasing fan engagement. Gotham FC has attracted a diverse ownership group, including U.S. tennis legend Naomi Osaka, which has boosted the team’s visibility and commercial appeal. Additionally, they’ve made significant strides in improving facilities, sponsorships, and corporate partnerships, positioning themselves as a competitive force both on and off the field.
Stadium: Red Bull Arena
Inaugural Season: 2013 (as Sky Blue FC)
6. North Carolina Courage (Cary, NC)
The North Carolina Courage have been a dominant force in the NWSL, winning multiple championships. Owned by North Carolina Football Club, the Courage benefit from shared resources with the men’s USL team, which enhances their infrastructure and business operations. The club has built strong corporate partnerships and sponsorships, helping to drive revenue and support their growth within a competitive sports market,
Stadium: WakeMed Soccer Park
Inaugural Season: 2017 (after rebranding from Western New York Flash, which was established in 2013)
7. OL Reign (Seattle, WA)
OL Reign, originally Seattle Reign FC, has a close partnership with French club Olympique Lyonnais. The team has consistently been in the mix for NWSL titles, with stars like Megan Rapinoe leading the charge on and off the field.
Stadium: Lumen Field
Inaugural Season: 2013 (as Seattle Reign FC)
8. Orlando pride (Orlando, FL)
Founded in 2016, the Orlando Pride have been home to global superstars like Marta and Alex Morgan. With the same ownership group as the MLS team Orlando City SC, the Pride have impressive resources and reach for partners and fans to benefit from.
Stadium: Exploria Stadium
Inaugural Season: 2016
9. Portland thorns (PORTLAND, OR)
Portland Thorns FC is one of the most successful and beloved teams in the NWSL. They have a decorated history, including multiple league championships. The Thorns have an unparalleled fan base and world-class players like Christine Sinclair and Sophia Smith.
Stadium: Providence Park
Inaugural Season: 2013
10. RACING LOUISVILLE FC (LOUISVILLE KY)
As one of the newer teams, Racing Louisville FC has made waves with their ambitious recruitment strategy, bringing in international talent like Nadia Nadim. They’re focused on building a competitive team while cultivating a strong community presence.
Stadium: Lynn Family Stadium
Inaugural Season: 2021
11. sAN dIEGO WAVE FC
San Diego Wave FC joined the NWSL in 2022 and quickly made their mark, thanks to players like Alex Morgan and a strong management team. Their attacking style of play and commitment to winning have made them a fan favorite in the league.
Stadium: Snapdragon Stadium
Inaugural Season: 2022
12. Utah Royals FC (Salt Lake City, UT)
The return of the Utah Royals in 2024 brings excitement back to Salt Lake City. After a brief hiatus, the team is back with new leadership and a renewed focus on competing for championships.
Stadium: America First Field
Inaugural Season: 2018 (team returned in 2024)
13. Washington Spirit (Washington, D.C.)
The Washington Spirit have enjoyed recent success, winning the NWSL Championship in 2021. With a young, talented squad and a growing fan base, they’re poised for continued success in the coming years.
Stadium: Audi Field
Inaugural Season: 2013
14. Bay FC (San Francisco, CA)
As the newest expansion team set to join the league in 2024, Bay FC represents the NWSL’s continued growth. With a focus on tapping into the vibrant Bay Area sports scene, they’re expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the league.
Stadium: TBD
Inaugural Season: 2024
The Future of the NWSL
The NWSL continues to dominate the headlines across women’s sports, and its growth shows no signs of slowing. As teams build their legacies and fan bases grow, technology and innovation will continue to play a critical role in enhancing the league’s future.
With customizable, interactive presentation technology like DIGIDECK, teams can deliver compelling pitches tailored to each partner, enhancing engagement and driving results. By streamlining the sales process, DIGIDECK helps teams like the Portland Thorns, North Carolina Courage, and Orlando Pride secure new partnerships, maximize revenue, and stay ahead in the competitive sports landscape.
For more information on how DIGIDECK can help your team enhance its presentation capabilities, request your custom demo today!
