NJ/NY Gotham FC announced on Saturday that midfielder Sinead Farrelly has signed a one-year contract for the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League season with an option for the 2024 season. Farrelly attended Gotham FC training camp as a non-roster invitee and is returning to the professional game after nearly eight years.
“I’m thankful for all the support I’ve received to help me reach this point, because I could not have done this alone,” said Farrelly. “I can’t even imagine doing this with another club except Gotham FC. My teammates, the coaches and the staff are amazing. The environment has been professional and so enjoyable. I’m beyond excited for this season with this team. We have such a unified and passionate group and we’re ready to put on a show and win.”
Farrelly was prolific in the NWSL during the first chapter of her career. The midfielder boasted three goals and two assists in 52 appearances, playing for FC Kansas City in the league’s inaugural season in 2013 and for the Portland Thorns in 2014 and 2015.
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“I want to be a key player for Gotham FC while also having grace and compassion with myself as I acclimate back into the professional environment,” Farrelly said. “There were times when this did not feel possible for me. But I have made it to this moment, and I’m going to keep building on it. As I continue, I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams, no matter how far out of reach they may seem.”
At the University of Virginia from 2007-10, Farrelly was twice named a semifinalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy as the nation’s top player. In her senior season, Farrelly had 12 goals and seven assists in 22 games. Farrelly also regularly featured with the U-17, U-20 and U-23 U.S. national teams.
“Sinead is not only an outstanding athlete, but one of the most admired people in our sport,” said Gotham FC general manager and head of soccer operations Yael Averbuch West. “She came into camp and earned a contract with her outstanding play. I know she sees this as just a first step, but everyone at Gotham FC is incredibly proud to be part of Sinead’s journey and excited about all of the great qualities to brings to our team.”