October 19, 2022 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) – Racing Louisville FC News Release
Racing Louisville FC forward Jess McDonald
(Racing Louisville FC, Credit: Connor Cunningham)
Racing Louisville FC has agreed to loan forward Jess McDonald to an Australian A-League Women club for a portion of the 2022-2023 season.
McDonald, who just finished her first campaign with Racing, will join Western United FC for league play through January, marking the second A-League stint in her storied career. She is expected to arrive in Australia in the coming days ahead of the Nov. 19 season opener.
The 2019 World Cup winner will return to Louisville at the end of January in time for Racing’s 2023 preseason camp.
“I am super stoked to have another opportunity to play in Australia,” McDonald said. “It’s always a great opportunity as an athlete to test your soccer knowledge and continue to learn in different ways, adjusting to the game how it’s played elsewhere. Hopefully I can help another program succeed with what I can bring to the table.”
One of the NWSL’s most decorated players, McDonald finished the 2022 regular season as the league’s all-time leader in assists (31) while ranking fourth all-time in goals (54) and games played (178). The Arizona native led Racing with five assists across all competitions and was second on the team with four goals.
A team captain, McDonald netted the game-winning goal in stoppage time of Racing’s season-ending victory over the Kansas City Current.
“I know Jess will have a successful time with Western United,” Racing coach Kim Björkegren said. “Having a player of her caliber playing there will be great for the league and the sport in Australia.”
In her last run in Australia, McDonald helped Melbourne Victory FC reach the 2013 W-League Grand Final by scoring seven goals in 13 appearances. She converted the match-winning penalty in the playoff semifinals that year.
This is the inaugural season for Western United, which is based in suburban Melbourne. McDonald will play there alongside Racing teammate Hillary Beall, who’s also on loan for the NWSL offseason.
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