The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is set to expand to 16 teams for its 14th season, starting March 13. This marks a significant growth from the nine teams that competed in 2020, and double the number from the inaugural 2013 season. The two new expansion clubs, Boston Legacy and Denver Summit, are taking different approaches as they prepare to enter the league.
Boston Legacy, initially launched as BOS Nation with a poorly received 'Too Many Balls' campaign, rebranded in March. The club has made swift progress, appointing former Barcelona general manager Doménec Guasch and Portuguese coach Filipa Patão. They have signed four players, including Malian striker Aissata Traoré, who scored nine goals in her debut season with Fleury. The club is building without a draft system, relying on allocation money and a new intra-league loan policy.
Denver Summit, the 16th franchise, had a smoother brand launch, unveiling a mountain-themed identity last week. However, they lag in on-field preparations, having yet to announce any player signings. The club has hired experienced staff, including president Jen Millet from Bay FC and general manager Curt Johnson from North Carolina Courage. Millet has indicated that player announcements and a head coach appointment are imminent.
Both clubs benefit from the NWSL's new expansion rules, which provide up to $1,065,000 in allocation money and an additional $968,000 transfer threshold. This financial support aims to help them build competitive rosters, though it may not be enough to create a super team immediately. Denver hopes to emulate Kansas City's success with a purpose-built women's stadium, while Boston focuses on attracting African talent to the league.
