A USL W League team is coming to Ballard! The team will launch with its own name, logo, and merchandise this fall. Kickoff will begin in May 2025 at Interbay Stadium. This is a monumental step forward for our local soccer community and Ballard FC as an organization.
Meeting the Moment
The USL W League is a pre-professional women’s soccer league that aims to develop and showcase the next generation of soccer talent. Seattle’s team will be the sixth in the league’s Northwest division, adding to a highly competitive field. The Ballard community has already shown immense passion and support for its local soccer clubs. Now, we’re increasing opportunities for women athletes to reach the professional ranks, and building a stronger, more inclusive community around soccer.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Ballard FC has a track record of helping athletes excel with the support of partners who share our passion for great soccer and community. The new women’s team will build on this foundation, sharing the same ownership group as Ballard FC. This group has added 25 influential women in Seattle sports and business. These include acclaimed National Women’s Soccer League players Lauren Barnes, Jess Fishlock, Olivia Van der Jagt, and Sam Hiatt, who are among the first professional players to invest in a USL W team.
“Our goal is to create better opportunities for young women to develop their skills on and off the field. The path to professional soccer didn’t exist on the same scale while I was growing up, and I’m thrilled to be part of changing that for future players.”
Lauren Barnes, captain of the Seattle Reign FC.
Jen Barnes, owner of Rough & Tumble Pub, and backers of the Seattle Storm led by Ginny Gilder have also signed on as investors. They join a collective of Seattle-based businesswomen, reflecting a strong commitment to women’s sports and community involvement.
“It is an honor to be making history together with this incredible ownership group.”
Jen Barnes, founder and CEO of Rough & Tumble Pub, one of the first places in the world to prioritize playing women’s sports on its screens.
Read more about our whole ownership group by visiting our Team Page.
Sam Zisette, President of Ballard FC, will continue to lead the organization, overseeing both the men’s and women’s teams.
“Introducing a USL W League team to Ballard is a monumental step in advancing our organization and soccer community. Ballard is a special place with an immense sense of pride, passionate spirit, and love for soccer. We can’t wait to see the community embrace this new team!”
Sam Zisette, President of Ballard FC
Joining him is Tiffany Mallick, who will serve as Vice President and focus on the women’s team. Mallick brings first-hand experience as a former soccer player and athletic trainer for collegiate and pre-professional teams.
“We are committed to creating an environment where women athletes can thrive, and we’re thrilled to work with partners who share our dedication to improving equity through sports.”
Tiffany Mallick, Vice President
Advancing the Game
Our goal is to set the standard for what women’s semi-professional soccer can be. The USL W League has done an excellent job of creating a pathway to professional soccer, and we’re looking forward to working with our fellow clubs to continue advancing the women’s game by increasing competition. This starts by expanding opportunities for women athletes in Seattle and increasing engagement around women’s soccer at the local level. Along the way, we hope to inspire the next generation of talent.
Follow the Journey
Join us at the Ballard FC game on July 12th to celebrate this exciting new chapter in Ballard’s sports history and support the growth of women’s soccer in Seattle!
Fans and community members are encouraged to follow the women’s team journey here on our website. Tickets will be released this fall, following a special brand launch event. Those who subscribe to the new team’s newsletter will be amongst the first to access tickets, merchandise, and more.
Interested sponsors are invited to reach out through our Contact Us Page for partnership information.
Launch Video
Check out the USL W League launch video.
