March 27, 2024 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
Portland Thorns FC News Release
Portland, Ore. – The Portland Thorns and Forward Sophia Smith have agreed to a multi-year contract extension that connects the five-year pro to the Rose City, the Thorns and its supporters as the club enters a new era. The contract will take effect immediately and link the United States Women’s National Team forward with Portland through the 2025 season, with a player option for 2026. The full terms of the contract will not be disclosed per club policy.
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“I’m excited to call Portland home and extend my time with the Thorns,” said Sophia Smith. “The support from the fans, city and club have been tremendous and I’m looking forward to being a part of its next chapter. I’m grateful for the support from Karina and the Bhathal family to me and my teammates, as we move forward and work hard to lift more trophies for the Thorns.”
“Soph is a special player who has accomplished so much in a Thorns kit and made our city and club proud. We’re thrilled that she’s reaffirmed Portland to be her home and trusts the organization as it moves forward,” said Portland Thorns General Manager Karina Leblanc. “The Bhathal family have been incredibly supportive from the beginning and with signings like this, they are demonstrating their commitment to build a championship winning club.”
“It was incredibly important for us to make a statement as we enter the next era of Thorns soccer – to the city, to our fans, and for our future,” said Thorns controlling owner and Governor Lisa Bhathal Merage. ” Soph is a generational talent and we’re excited for the future we’ll build together.”
“We are over the moon to have Soph commit again to the Thorns. She is a proven, world class talent and one that we are excited to have contribute to the team’s continued success,” said Head Coach Mike Norris. “We look forward to working with her in a Thorns jersey as she continues to shine as one of the top strikers in the world.”
This extension marks the second time Smith renews her contract with Portland, after re-signing with the club in 2022 on a three-year deal set to expire at the end of the 2024 season. Thus far in her career Smith has helped the Thorns lift five trophies, including the 2022 NWSL Championship, the 2021 NWSL Shield, the 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup, the 2022 Community Shield and the 2021 Women’s International Champions Cup. Smith is the only player in Portland…