Chloe Ricketts: Youth Soccer Phenom Turned NWSL’s Youngest Player

Four years ago, Olivia Moultrie shook the world by becoming the NWSL’s youngest player. But that title now officially belongs to Chloe Ricketts. The midfielder, younger than Moultrie by only three days, became the second 15-year-old to sign with the NWSL. Let’s get to know this young star before her big debut in the NWSL!

Youth Soccer Career

This contract results from Rickett’s participation in Spirit’s preseason training camp in January. She was invited by the team as a nonroster invitee, which is shorthand for any player not currently on the 40-man roster but participating in training.

Now signed to The Washington Spirit on a three-year contract, Ricketts was playing for AFC Ann Arbor in Michigan. Being the youngest on a team isn’t new to Ricketts, as she was also the youngest player in her club’s history.

Before AFC Ann Arbor, Ricketts played for the 2006 Girls Ann Arbor Tigers, getting all the way to the Elite Clubs National League finals. For the Ann Arbor Tigers, she also led her team to win the National Great Lakes Conference and the Michigan State Cup–and that was on the 2007 Boys side.

Chloe Ricketts is also a member of the USWNT U16 team, with many more years to come, we’re sure. As just a sophomore, Ricketts will be able to continue her education while playing for Spirit but will likely forego joining her school’s varsity team.

What Will Her Role on the Washington Spirit Look Like?

On the Spirit, Ricketts is in good company. She joins Trinity Rodman, who, at 18, was the youngest player ever drafted by the College Draft in 2021. This now gives the Washington spirit the youngest offensive line in the league, with Rodman at striker and Ricketts at midfield. As a member of the NWSL, Ricketts will be playing against some of the best players from around the globe, and we’re excited to see how she fares. 

Of this entire experience, Ricketts has said: 

“The opportunity to join the Washington Spirit on a professional contract is a dream come true. I’m looking forward to continuing my development as a player and individual with the great resources here in the District… I can’t wait to do my part in contributing to the club’s success… Now, let’s go win another championship!”

From GSN and socceristas everywhere, we can’t wait to see what she can do!

Featured image via @_chloericketts39 on Instagram

_

GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS