Why Sinead Farrelly’s Return to Soccer Is So Important
The NWSL’s new season has already witnessed some great news, whether it is the addition or return of clubs like Utah Royals or the return of old faces like Sinead Farrelly.
We love this news, but we especially want to talk about why the return of Sinead Farrelly is a historical and inspiring event for the NWSL as a league and for the fans.
Sinead Farrelly as a Player
One of the reasons that make Sinead Farrelly’s return inspiring is the fact that it has been more than seven years since she retired.
Before retirement, Farrelly had a great career. At the very beginning, Farrelly played for the Philadelphia Independence in 2011. The 33-year-old player then moved to the NWSL by joining FC Kansas City in 2013. She spent the last two seasons of her career playing for Portland Thorns. Later, her time at Portland Thorns would become the center of her story. She announced her retirement in 2016 after being in a car accident.
Regarding her numbers, she appeared in 52 NSWL games and has her name under three goals and two assists.
We definitely can’t wait to see what she will add to her new team Gotham FC. If things go well, then Farrelly’s one-year contract is possible to extend for one more year.
Joining Gotham FC
Gotham’s newest player has joined them in their preseason as a nonroster invitee, and we couldn’t be happier to see her on the field once again after nearly eight years. The 33-year-old midfielder appeared in Gotham FC’s home opener against OL Reign; she made her debut in the 69th minute.
View this post on Instagram
In an official press release, Farrelly talked about her return, saying, “I’m thankful for all the support I’ve received to help me reach this point because I could not have done this alone. 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.”
Gotham FC’s GM and Head of Soccer Operations, Yael Averbuch West, had nothing but good things to say about Farrelly. “Sinead is not only an outstanding athlete, but one of the most admired people in our sport. 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 she brings to our team,” West said.
Having Her Voice Heard
The new beginning for NWSL wouldn’t have been possible if it weren’t for Farrelly, Mana Shim, and Kaiya McCullough.
The three players courageously came forward and detailed the abuse they endured by coaches Paul Riley and Richie Burke. Farrelly and Shim also came forward with sexual coercion, abuse, and harassment accusations against Paul Riley, who was later given a lifetime ban from the NWSL.
So if it weren’t for them, there probably wouldn’t have been several investigations into the misconduct in the league, including the Sally Yates report.
Farrelly was one of the players brave enough to come forward and put her livelihood at risk to ensure others were safe. So, to see her back in the career that brought her so much hardship is nothing short of inspirational.
An Inspiration For Female Soccer Players
Sinead Farrelly’s return will inspire young soccer players.
She said in an official statement, “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. 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.”
Indeed, she will inspire others. Not only is Farrelly a great player, but she also sets a great example of fighting against hardships. She is a player who went through a car accident, endured years of sexual and mental abuse, and announced retirement at a young age only to come back later. Yes, Farrelly returned after eight years, which makes her return even better. To stay in shape and keep her form up as well as she has is remarkable.
She’s a face of resilience. She was and always will be a great example that it is never too late to chase your dreams and be yourself.
Featured image via @GothamFC on Instagram
_
GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS
Girls Soccer Network
Your source for girls soccer news
