Spirit Sign Youngest Player in NWSL History, 15-Year-Old Chloe Ricketts

The teenager’s three-year deal includes a player option in 2026.

Washington Spirit midfielder Chloe Ricketts signed a three-year deal—that includes a player option with the club in 2026—on Friday, making her the youngest player ever to secure a contract with an NWSL franchise.

Ricketts signed her contract three days sooner (15 years, 283 days) than Olivia Moultrie (15 years, 286 days) did in June 2021 when she signed with the Thorns. The high school sophomore participated in training camp with the Spirit in January as a non-roster player.

“The opportunity to join the Washington Spirit on a professional contract is a dream come true,” Ricketts said. “I’m looking forward to continuing my development as a player and individual with the great resources here in the District.”

Ricketts will join the team and will still be able to finish her education online. However, per the NWSL’s under 18 entry mandate, Ricketts must obtain a full roster spot and live with a parent or guardian until she reaches 18.

The Dexter, Mich., native will also not be allowed be part of the league’s expansion draft, traded or let go before she turns 18 without authorization of a parent or guardian.

Spirit signs youngest-ever player to NWSL contract!

— Washington Spirit - x (@WashSpirit) March 3, 2023

Mark Parsons, Washington’s head coach, was thrilled to add Ricketts to the club.

“Chloe [Ricketts] has shown great quality with and without the ball and has an incredible intensity in everything she does,” Parsons said in a team statement. “The vision and infrastructure of our club make this signing possible, and we look forward to Chloe developing and becoming an important player and teammate for our team.”

The Spirit will begin the 2023 season on March 26 against OL Reign. Washington finished the ’22 campaign 3–9–10 overall.