When Crystal Dunn left her hometown on Long Island at age 17 to pursue her dream of professional soccer, she wasn’t sure when the next time would be that she could call the New York metropolitan area home. Fourteen years and four professional teams later, she’s home, signing a multi-year contract with NJ/NY Gotham FC through 2026.
“I’m not just coming home, but I’m here and staying put to be able to build a life back here with my family, and I’m most excited about that,” Dunn told The Equalizer. “And as a New Yorker, I’m passionate about the growth of women’s sports in this area.”
As the 31-year-old midfielder prepares to join Gotham, a team fresh off a National Women’s Soccer League Championship, she sees a franchise that is fully invested in the growth of the game to ensure that Gotham is right up there with the other major New York sports franchises that have become synonymous with the city.
“There’s a lot that goes on in and happens in New York, and there are so many sports teams to root for,” Dunn said. “My hope really is to make sure I can do everything in my power to impact this organization on the field, and also help bring awareness to this amazing club off the field.”
