Comparing the 3 California NWSL Teams: Angel City, Bay FC, and San Diego Wave
We all know how huge the rivalry is between the San Diego Wave and Angel City FC. Since their first regular season, both teams have an even record of wins and losses against each other. Now with Bay FC getting added as a third California NWSL team, the rivalries will be unmatched!
Although the teams are all based out of the same state, each club is distinct in its own way. Taking inspiration from their cities to their own players and ownership teams, they are completely unique. Let’s take a look at how these teams compare against each other.
Angel City FC
The Los Angeles-based club is one of the most unique teams in the league. Their entire presence revolves around their city and fanbase. The team’s mantra, “Volemos,” celebrates their Spanish-speaking roots. The overall aim of the club is to give back to its community with its mission-driven approach. Their team colors are a bit more subtle, with hues of black, white, and pink. They offer a modern take on what the club says represents the city.
Angel City has boasted of its one-of-a-kind ownership group consisting of mostly women and high-profile members. Their player roster is a diverse mix of everything from veteran to international players. They have made some wise player acquisitions, like signing Julie Ertz.
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This season has been rocky for ACFC with player injuries and their head coach being let go. However, they are on the up with a new interim head coach and key players like Sarah Gorden returning.
Although the club has not been around for long, they have become a huge presence within the league. They sell out games and draw record-breaking numbers of viewers for their games.
San Diego Wave FC
The San Diego Wave has some of the best and most well-known female soccer players. Many of them were included on the USWNT roster for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. With names like Alex Morgan and Naomi Girma, they have done very well in the league. They finished third overall last season and currently standing in the top six this season.
The club, which is owned by billionaire investor Ron Burkle, has been led by head coach Casey Stoney since the team’s inception.
As far as looks go, the Wave’s colors describe exactly what you think of when you picture San Diego: sun and waves. In comparison to the other two California teams, the orange, pink and blue are much more vibrant.
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One thing the Wave has that others don’t is a ton of young talent. Melanie Barcenas made history for the club when she became the youngest player to sign and appear for an NWSL team earlier this year. Just last year, the Wave signed then-17-year-old Jaedyn Shaw, who became only the second high school player to sign professionally in the league. They have definitely made a statement to all that they aren’t afraid to go after the talent they want, no matter the age.
Bay FC
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Newcomer to the California NWSL scene, Bay FC is now officially the 14th team in the league. Their founding group is like a mix of the other two clubs, co-founded by USWNT legends Brandi Chastain, Aly Wagner, Danielle Slaton, and Leslie Osborn, who partnered with global investment firm Sixth Street.
The team has a completely different look compared to the Southern California teams, starting with the Old English-style font and letterman-style jackets. It seems that they may stick with the navy blue, white, and gray color scheme. However, they do include the orange that serves as a reminder of the Golden Gate Bridge.
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They will begin playing next season and have already been confirmed to receive the first pick in the NWSL Expansion Draft and the first pick in the second and fourth-round picks of the NWSL Draft. Even though they do not have any players or a head coach yet, the club has a solid chance to be something special with their round picks and knowledgeable ownership team.
I know I speak for us all when I say I am eager to see these three California NWSL teams battle it out! Despite this season not yet being over, I will patiently await next season to see how it plays out!
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