Bay FC made a significant move by acquiring 2019 World Cup winner Abby Dahlkemper in a trade with San Diego Wave FC. The trade, announced on Monday, saw San Diego receive $50,000 in allocation money in exchange for Dahlkemper. Following the trade, Dahlkemper signed a contract with Bay FC through the 2026 NWSL season, with an option for 2027.
The trade was initiated at the request of Dahlkemper, who hails from the Bay Area. Bay FC, an expansion team in the NWSL this season, welcomed the opportunity to bring the talented defender back to her hometown.
Dahlkemper expressed her gratitude towards San Diego Wave FC and its fans for the support she received during her time with the club. She played a pivotal role in helping San Diego secure the NWSL Shield, despite facing multiple injuries over the past few seasons.
With 155 career NWSL appearances, Dahlkemper has established herself as one of the top center-backs in the league. Her accolades include three NWSL Championships, four NWSL Shields, and being named NWSL Defender of the Year in 2017.
Having represented the United States women's national team on 83 occasions, Dahlkemper played a crucial role in the team's triumph at the 2019 World Cup and the bronze medal win at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
Bay FC's head coach, Albertin Montoya, praised Dahlkemper's leadership, experience, and success at the highest level, highlighting her as a valuable addition to the team. Montoya emphasized Dahlkemper's on-field abilities and how she aligns perfectly with the team's style of play.
Abby Dahlkemper's return to her roots with Bay FC marks a significant moment in her career, as she looks forward to playing in front of her family and friends for the first time in her club career. Her journey from youth soccer at MVLA to becoming a World Cup champion has come full circle with this move to Bay FC.
