CHARLOTTE, NC (August 20, 2025) – Carolina Ascent FC announced today the loan signing of midfielder Maddie Mercado from NWSL side Seattle Reign for the 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League season.
Mercado, 24, has made 19 appearances and scored two goals since joining Seattle in 2024. She was originally selected 27th overall in the 2024 NWSL Draft following a standout career at the University of Notre Dame.
“We’re really excited to welcome Maddie,” said Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole. “She’ll play an important role in our attack, bringing valuable NWSL experience and a strong pedigree from her time at Notre Dame. I can’t wait for our fans to see her creativity and quality on the field here in Charlotte.”
“I’m so excited for the opportunity to join Carolina and look forward to contributing in the team’s success,” Mercado shared. “I’m eager to integrate my creative style into an already dangerous attacking team.”
A five-year standout at Notre Dame (2019–2024), Mercado scored 26 goals in 94 appearances and earned All-ACC Second Team honors as a senior. She now reunites with former Irish teammate Brianna Martinez in Charlotte.
On the international stage, Mercado represented the United States at the U-14 through U-19 levels, winning the 2016 CONCACAF Girls’ U-15 Championship and the 2017 Torneo delle Nazioni with the U-16 squad.
ABOUT CAROLINA ASCENT FC
Carolina Ascent FC is one of nine teams of the Gainbridge Super League, a USL property and a Division One professional women’s soccer league which kicked off its inaugural season in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. Step by step, the club will take strides to grow the women’s game, elevate the community and support a more sustainable future for residents of the Carolinas. The team plays all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. Visit CarolinaAscent.com to join the climb, stay updated on club news and purchase season tickets. Social media page links: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.
