CHARLOTTE, NC (September 2, 2026) – The Gainbridge Super League announced today that Reese Tappan, Sydney Martinez, and Addisyn Merrick have been named to the league’s Team of the Month for August.
Carolina’s three selections rank second-most in the league for August, trailing only Sporting JAX. The trio helped the Ascent open the 2026 Fall campaign with back-to-back road victories while conceding just two goals across the first three matches of the season.
REESE TAPPAN
Making her first appearances with the Ascent, Tappan put together a sensational opening month at the back for Carolina. Starting at center back alongside Jenna Butler, the former Spokane Zephyr defender made a seamless transition into the Ascent back line. Through the first three matches of the campaign, Tappan leads the club in both tackles won and duels won while helping Carolina concede just two goals.
Tappan capped off the month by making an impact at the other end of the pitch. In the final match of August, she opened her Ascent account with a second-half equalizer against Tampa Bay Sun.
SYDNEY MARTINEZ
Martinez picked up exactly where she left off last season with a strong August between the posts. The goalkeeper earned a clean sheet in the season opener at DC Power, making seven saves to help Carolina secure all three points. She followed it up with another stellar performance in Dallas as the Ascent opened the campaign with back-to-back road victories.
Through the first three matches of the season, Martinez is tied for the league lead with 13 saves.
ADDISYN MERRICK
Merrick was a key contributor from right back throughout August, starting all three matches for Carolina and providing a consistent presence on both ends of the field. Merrick also made her presence felt going forward throughout August. In the season opener at DC Power, she provided the match-winning assist with a pinpoint delivery to Mia Corbin for the lone goal of the night. She remained heavily involved in Carolina’s attack throughout the month and currently ranks among the league’s top 10 in chances created.
Carolina Ascent returns home Saturday for Salute to Service Night against Fort Lauderdale United FC. Tickets are available here.
ABOUT CAROLINA ASCENT FC
Carolina Ascent FC is one of eight 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.
