The NWSL kicks off its 12th season this weekend, with two new teams and a new media deal – Cache Valley Daily
Now that the National Women’s Soccer League has effectively distanced itself from the turbulence of two years ago, Commissioner Jessica Berman is extolling the league’s momentum heading into Season 12 and beyond. The NWSL has two new teams in Bay FC and the Utah Royals, a new media rights deal that will provide fans greater access to games and an infusion of international talent. “Really this is the table being set for the future of the league,” Berman said Thursday. “We believe that we reset the league in 2022, 2023 we established the foundation and this is the point we really feel like the league is going to take off.” It kicks off Friday with the Challenge Cup, a match at New Jersey’s Red Bull Arena between defending league champion Gotham FC and the San Diego Wave, who won the NWSL Shield for the best record last year. The regular season opens on Saturday, with the Portland Thorns visiting the Kansas City Current in the first NWSL game to be broadcast on ABC. The NWSL was marred by scandal in late 2021, when then-North Carolina Courage coach Paul Riley was accused of sexual coercion and misconduct. He was immediately dismissed