In a surprising turn of events, San Diego Wave FC and their accomplished goalkeeper, Kailen Sheridan, have mutually agreed to terminate her contract. This decision marks the end of a significant chapter for both the player and the club.
Contract History and Performance
Kailen Sheridan initially signed a four-year extension with San Diego Wave FC in July 2023, which was set to keep her with the club until the conclusion of the 2026 season in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Sheridan has been a key player for the Wave since her arrival, starting all 86 regular-season matches and making numerous crucial saves that contributed to the team’s success.
Her tenure with the Wave saw her help secure the NWSL Shield in 2023 and the NWSL Challenge Cup in 2024. Additionally, Sheridan’s upped her profile during her first season with the squad, earning the NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year title and a position on the Best XI first team.
Statement from Management
San Diego Wave FC’s Sporting Director and General Manager, Camille Ashton, expressed gratitude towards Sheridan. She stated, “Kailen has been an integral part of this Club since day one. After discussions, we mutually agreed that this was the right decision for all parties. We thank her for her contributions to this Club and this city and wish her the best in the next chapter of her career.”
Rostering Updates
As the offseason progresses, Sheridan was the only goalkeeper listed under contract during the team’s end-of-year roster decisions. With no additional offseason goalkeeper signings announced at this time, the club is exploring options for rebuilding its goalkeeping lineup, including discussions with DiDi Haračić, who has yet to finalize a deal with another team.
Background and International Achievements
Sheridan’s professional journey began with Sky Blue FC, now known as Gotham FC, in 2017, following a standout college career at Clemson University. Over four seasons, she made 80 regular-season appearances with Gotham, showcasing her impressive skillset and establishing herself as a reliable force in goal.
Her accolades include being honored as the Golden Glove winner for the NWSL Challenge Cup in 2020 and earning a place on the NWSL Best XI in 2021. On the international stage, she has represented Canada in 63 matches, most notably being part of the Olympic gold medal-winning team in 2021. Sheridan was also named the Golden Glove winner for the 2022 Concacaf W Championship and included in the tournament’s Best XI.
