Gainbridge Super League News

HOUSTON, TX (July 1, 2025) – The Houston Dash will host Carolina Ascent FC at 8:00 p.m. ET (7:00 pm CT) on Sunday, July 20 at Houston Sports Park, both teams announced today. The match will be open to Season Ticket Members, and additional information about the match will be shared via email.

“We are really excited to go to Houston to play the Dash,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole. “Houston’s new look has been exciting to watch this season. I’m looking forward to this game against a good team with renewed energy so far this season.”

Houston Dash joined the National Women’s Soccer League in 2014 as the league’s first expansion team. Under the new leadership of first-year head coach Fabrice Gautrat, the club has ushered in a new era—expanding its technical staff and signing 10 new players ahead of the 2025 season. The Dash made history by winning the inaugural NWSL Challenge Cup in 2020 and returned to the playoffs in 2022. With a roster featuring 11 senior internationals, including Yazmeen Ryan, Avery Patterson, and Michelle Alozie, the Dash combine top-tier talent with a renewed vision for success.

This is Carolina Ascent’s second friendly scheduled with an NWSL club this July. Carolina Ascent will face Angel City FC on July 26 in Los Angeles.

Tickets for the match are available at HoustonDash.com.

ABOUT CAROLINA ASCENT FC

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new 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.

CHARLOTTE, NC (June 17, 2025) – Carolina Ascent FC today announced players who have won team awards for the club’s inaugural season.

The honors presented include Young Player of the Year, the CARES Award (Carolina Ascent Recognition of Extraordinary Service), Woman of the Year, and Player of the Year. All awards were voted on by the team, with the exception of the CARES Award, which was determined by fan vote.

Read below to see who earned each award as the day rolls along.

B HYLTON, YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Carolina Ascent has announced that B Hylton is the club’s Young Player of the Year.

“B has had a good first season at the professional level,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole. “B will now take the next step in her career and I am confident she will take that step in her stride. As ‘one of our own’, we are all so excited to watch this special young player develop right here in the Carolinas.”

Hylton became the first player to join Carolina Ascent on an USL Academy contract back in June 2024.

Hylton made her professional debut on August 17, 2024. She made 13 appearances this season, making history as the club’s youngest goal scorer on April 12 at 17 years, 352 days old.

Nearly a year removed from signing her Academy contract, Hylton decided to forgo collegiate soccer and become the club’s first academy player to make the leap directly to the pros.

“The fact that I’m able to play professionally in the city where I grew up, where I have the support of family, friends, as well as the amazing Carolina Ascent fans, is absolutely incredible, and I couldn’t be happier,” said Hylton after signing her contract. “I’m really excited because this is a big step forward in my career, so I’m really looking forward to next year and beyond.”

JOSIE STUDER, CARES AWARD

Carolina Ascent FC is proud to announce that defender Josie Studer has been named the recipient of the CARES Award (Carolina Ascent Recognition of Extraordinary Service), honoring her exceptional commitment to serving the community.

“Josie is an unbelievable professional,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole. “She has been active in the community since day one during her first season with Carolina Ascent. She fully deserves this award, and it is no surprise to me that she was voted the winner by our fans.”

Recognized for her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the pitch, Studer devoted her time to several local organizations throughout the season. Her volunteer efforts included supporting animal welfare and community outreach through partnerships with Fur Babies Animal Rescue, Animal Care & Control, Stand For Animals, and Bark and Books.

“Every life matters, and I believe we all have the power to make a difference in our communities, whether that’s through compassion, action, or volunteering,” shared Studer. “This award is not just mine. It’s for every shelter worker, foster parent, rescue organization and volunteer making the world a kinder place. I’m incredibly grateful, and I’ll continue to do my part — one paw, hoof, or wing, at a time!”

TAYLOR PORTER, WOMAN OF THE YEAR

Carolina Ascent has announced that Taylor Porter is the club’s Woman of the Year.

“Taylor epitomizes what the Carolina Ascent FC Woman of the Year stands for,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole. “Voted on by the players – the award is centered around consistency on the field, consistency off the field, and the identification of a person who shares a huge amount of care and love for her teammates. Any award that is voted by your peers is always a bit sweeter. Our very own ‘Iron Women’ deserves this award.”

The co-captain did not miss a second of action this season, one of only four players in the league to do so. Porter led the team in interceptions (37), tackles (52), and finished tied for third in assists (4). Yet, Porter’s biggest impact may have been off the field, continually working to bring the team together and building chemistry through fun off-field activities.

“She has been unsung, but not internally. We recognize her value and we recognize her leadership,” shared Poole.

“Everybody’s the leader on this team in their own way”, shared Porter. “I lead in my own way, and other people do too. One of our first team bonding was going to Rally Pickleball, and it was really fun just to do a different sport and have a fun time and let loose. “

MIA CORBIN, PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Carolina Ascent has announced that forward Mia Corbin has been named the team’s Player of the Year.

“I think it was clear throughout our organization why Mia was voted Carolina Ascent Player of the Year. Mia had a great season on the field, but has also been a driver for us off the field,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole.

Corbin was electric throughout the year, finishing second in league-wide voting for USL Super League Player of the Year. After scoring three goals in the Fall, she caught fire in the Spring with nine more, helping vault Carolina Ascent to the top of the standings. Her 12 total goals ranked third in the league, as did her 51 total shots.

In addition to her scoring prowess, Corbin was named to the USL Super League Team of the Month five times — the most on the team — and took home Player of the Month honors in March.

Though known primarily for her attacking ability, Corbin evolved her role down the stretch, often dropping deeper to create opportunities for teammates and contribute defensively. She finished second on the squad in duels won (118) and aerial duels won (67), underscoring her all-around impact.

ABOUT CAROLINA ASCENT FC

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new 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.

CHARLOTTE, NC (June 14, 2025) – Carolina Ascent forward Eli Hutchinson has announced her retirement from professional soccer. The Israel international was a key figure in Carolina Ascent’s attack during the club’s inaugural season, scoring five goals and starting nine of the team’s final 10 matches.

“This season was one of the hardest of my career, but also one of my absolute favorites,” shared Hutchinson. “I couldn’t have asked for a better place to end this chapter. This club, these teammates, and the people behind the scenes gave me everything I needed to finish strong. I’m so grateful to everyone who made this year what it was, especially Dan DiMicco and the entire staff. This club will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Hutchinson made her debut for Carolina Ascent on October 15 against Brooklyn FC. Hutchinson scored in her first start of the season —a 5th-minute goal in a 2-1 road win against Spokane Zephyr FC on March 8. She tallied her first USL Super League brace in a 3-0 victory over the same opponent on April 19 and added a pivotal goal in a 1-1 draw against Tampa Bay Sun FC on May 17 that helped clinch the Players’ Shield for Carolina Ascent.

Hutchinson’s professional career began in 2018 with BIIK Kazygurt in Kazakhstan, where she gained valuable experience competing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. She then played in Israel for Maccabi Holon and Ramat HaSharon before a brief stint in Iceland with Grindavik. Hutchinson returned to Israel to join reigning champions Kiryat Gat, where she won two league titles and lifted the Israel Women’s Cup during the 2021–22 season. She wrapped up her European career with Keflavik in Iceland in 2024 before joining Carolina Ascent in June 2024.

Hutchinson, 29, played collegiately at Marquette University, where she was named to the 2017 All-BIG EAST Championship Team and recorded 66 appearances, seven goals, and five assists. 

Hutchinson recorded 10 caps for the Israel National Team and recorded her first international goal on February 25, 2025 in a 3-1 win against Estonia.

“Eli has been sensational for us since the first day she got here,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole. “It’s bittersweet to see her go. When we were at our best, she was helping us to be successful. I wish her nothing but the best and I’m excited for the next chapter of her life.”

Carolina Ascent congratulate Eli on a fantastic career and wish her the best in her next chapter.

ABOUT CAROLINA ASCENT FC

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new 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.

Led the team to the best regular season record in inaugural season

CHARLOTTE, NC (June 11, 2025) – The USL Super League announced today that Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole has been named USL Super League Coach of the Year.

Poole led Carolina Ascent to the Inaugural Players’ Shield, winning the regular season title with two games to spare. The team showcased its dominance on both ends of the pitch, leading the league in goals scored while allowing the fewest goals against. The squad also boasted four All-League Team players, tied for the most selections in the USL Super League.

“Poole has been an incredibly important part of our success this season,” shared Carolina Ascent defender Jill Aguilera. “He has instilled so much confidence into the team and believes our success comes from just being ourselves on the field. Poole and the rest of coaching staff would give us all of the credit but they have done so much to lead us through a great first season.”

Appointed as Carolina Ascent’s inaugural head coach in January 2024, Poole brought together a roster of players who had never shared the field before. Building chemistry both on and off the pitch posed significant challenges, but the payoff proved to be incredibly rewarding.

“Poole is one of the most passionate and dedicated coaches I’ve ever worked with,” shared Carolina Ascent captain Taylor Porter. “He always articulates his vision clearly and never demands of us what he wouldn’t expect from himself. It’s no surprise to me he won coach of the year after his very successful first season as a head coach and I know he will always hold himself to the highest standard.”

With a historic first season now behind him, Poole has set a high bar for what’s to come. Team success has built a strong foundation and clear identity for Carolina Ascent — one that players want to be part of and opponents now take seriously. As the club looks ahead to its second year, Poole’s competitive mindset and commitment to growth position Carolina Ascent to continue contending for championships.

“When we put a good product on for our fans and for the city, people will jump on it and I think people are starting to see that and feel that,” shared Poole after the semifinal. “That’s probably my biggest takeaway is a lot of optimism for the future. We’ve definitely instilled the winning culture and a winning team. I can’t wait to get going again. That’s just who I am.”

ABOUT CAROLINA ASCENT FC

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new 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.

The defender has now won two individual league awards this season.

CHARLOTTE, NC (June 11, 2025) – The USL Super League announced today that Carolina Ascent defender Jill Aguilera has been named the USL Super League Defender of the Year.

Aguilera played a vital role in Carolina Ascent’s successful inaugural season, combining rock-solid defending with dynamic contributions in the attack. Primarily operating as an outside back, she led the league with seven assists, earning the Golden Playmaker Award, and consistently proved to be a two-way threat.

“I’m incredibly proud that Jill has been recognized as the USL Defender of the Year,” said Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole. “Her defensive ability is outstanding, but what truly sets her apart is her effectiveness going forward as an attacking fullback. Jill has scored, assisted, and created countless chances for us. She’s a total professional, a leader with high accountability, and a positive presence in our locker room. This award is well-deserved, and I look forward to her continued leadership with the Carolina Ascent family.”

Aguilera’s individual stats highlight her impact on both ends of the field. She ranked:

• 2nd in the league in chances created (46)
• 2nd in total crosses (128)
• 6th in defensive clearances (107)

Her standout season included two goals, with her second — a curling free kick against Brooklyn FC on April 12 — nominated for April Goal of the Month.

On May 17, in the match that secured Carolina Ascent the Players’ Shield, Aguilera provided the decisive assist on Eli Hutchinson’s 2nd-minute goal against Tampa Bay Sun FC, locking in the crucial point needed to clinch the regular season crown.

“I’m so grateful to have received this award — it means a lot. I’m thankful for my teammates and staff who continue to help me grow. This award belongs to the entire team, I would not have won it without them,” expressed Aguilera.

About Carolina Ascent FC
Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a Division One professional women’s soccer league that 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. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit CarolinaAscent.com.

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 11, 2025) – Today, Angel City Football Club (ACFC) and Carolina Ascent FC announced a friendly match scheduled for Saturday, July 26 at 8:00 p.m. ET at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. The match will mark the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, offering a unique opportunity for both sides to showcase their talent on the pitch, connect with fans, and celebrate the continued growth of professional women’s soccer. 

Angel City Season Ticket Members will have priority to purchase tickets now starting at $23 (click HERE to purchase), with tickets opening to the general public today at 1:00 p.m. PT.

“We are excited to host the Carolina Ascent and introduce them and the USL Super League to our incredible fan base,” said ACFC Sporting Director Mark Parsons. “The development of talent in this country is growing rapidly as is the popularity of women’s football. The USL Super League is creating additional opportunities for professional play and we look forward to welcoming them as our featured home friendly match.” 

“We are really looking forward to our upcoming game against Angel City. ACFC have been an NWSL standard setter since their inception,” said Carolina Ascent Head Coach/General Manager Philip Poole. “As the 2024/25 USL Super League shield winners – it will be a pleasure to take on one of the world leaders in women’s professional football in a competitive friendly.”

Carolina Ascent FC, one of eight USL Super League franchises, has set several records since entering the first-year league, scoring the Super League’s first ever goal while notching the first clean sheet and victory in league history, along with becoming the first club to score multiple goals in a game. On August 17, 2024, the club recorded the highest attended women’s soccer match in the Carolinas.

This season, the club led the league in goals scored and goals against. They held the best regular season record and won the Inaugural Players’ Shield. Additionally, four players earned All-League honors (Mia Corbin – 1st Team, Jill Aguilera – 1st Team, Sydney Studer – 1st Team, Samantha Leshnak Murphy – 2nd Team).

Based in Los Angeles, Angel City FC joined the National Women’s Soccer League in 2020 and has quickly become one of the league’s most visible, community-driven, and valuable clubs. With a roster that includes capped U.S. internationals Sydney Leroux and Christen Press, as well as dynamic sisters Gisele and Alyssa Thompson, Angel City blends star power with emerging skill. Backed by a majority-female ownership group that includes Natalie Portman, Serena Williams, and Mia Hamm, the club is known for its commitment to equity, impact, and excellence on and off the pitch.

The Carolina Ascent FC roster includes three Southern California-native players including forward Rylee Baisden from Yorba Linda, midfielder Taylor Porter from San Diego, defender Sydney Studer from Corona, and one Northern California-native midfielder Jill Aguilera from Redwood City. Additionally, this match will also be Angel City FC’s first-ever Battle of the Clubs Night. The top three clubs that purchase the most tickets through this special link will unlock exclusive game day experiences. Every ticket purchased through the link includes a limited-edition Angel City FC drawstring bag. The club with the most tickets sold will receive a VIP invitation to attend an Angel City FC practice and be featured on the video board during the match.

ABOUT CAROLINA ASCENT FC

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a new 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.

Media Contact: Jan Ivey – jivey@CarolinaAscentFC.com

ABOUT ANGEL CITY FOOTBALL CLUB

Angel City Football Club (ACFC) of Los Angeles, in the National Women’s Soccer League, is entering its fourth season in 2025 at BMO Stadium in downtown Los Angeles. ACFC is led by controlling owners Willow Bay and Bob Iger and was co-founded by tech entrepreneur Julie Uhrman, actor and activist Natalie Portman, and venture capitalist Kara Nortman. The club has been named the world’s most valuable women’s sports team, with a valuation of $250 million. Mark Parsons serves as the team’s Sporting Director and Alex Straus is the club’s head coach.

To purchase tickets, go to angelcity.com/tickets/seasontickets or contact tickets@angelcity.com. Learn more about ACFC at www.angelcity.com and follow the team on social media @weareangelcity.

Media Contact: media@angelcity.com

CHARLOTTE, NC (June 9, 2025) – The USL Super League announced today the inaugural All-League First and Second Teams of the season. Carolina Ascent’s Mia Corbin, Jill Aguilera, and Sydney Studer earned First Team honors, while goalkeeper Samantha Leshnak Murphy earned Second Team honors.

Carolina Ascent led the league with three players named to the All-League First Team. The club tied Dallas Trinity FC and Tampa Bay Sun FC for the most total selections with four.

MIA CORBIN | ALL-LEAGUE FIRST TEAM

Forward Mia Corbin has been named to the inaugural All-League First Team.

Corbin led Carolina Ascent with 12 goals on the season, finishing second in the Golden Boot race.

“Mia had a great season for us. She has consistently been among the best players in the league – not only from a goalscoring perspective, but also from a playmaking, defending, and on-field leadership standpoint,” shared Head Coach Philip Poole.

After scoring three goals in the Fall season, Corbin exploded for nine in the spring, vaulting herself and Carolina Ascent to the top of the league.

Corbin led the team with five USL Super League Team of the Month selections.

JILL AGUILERA | ALL-LEAGUE FIRST TEAM

Defender Jill Aguilera has been named to the inaugural All-League First Team.

The winner of the Golden Playmaker Award, Aguilera led the league with seven assists. Operating as an outside back most of the season, Aguilera remained a strong defender, while being a serious threat on the flank.

“Jill shows so much quality in her game – she consistently shows the ability to be one of the best pound-for-pound defenders in the league, while producing as an attacking threat that is difficult for opponents to deal with. I am glad she has been recognized as an All-League First Team selection,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole.

Aguilera finished the regular season 2nd in the league in chances created (46), 2nd in crosses (128), and 6th in defensive clearances (107).

SYDNEY STUDER | ALL-LEAGUE FIRST TEAM

Defender Sydney Studer has been named to the inaugural All-League First Team.

Studer played in 24 total games in her first professional season, starting 23 of them. The Washington State University alum was a crucial part of Carolina Ascent’s rise to the top of the table at the heart of the team’s defense.

“Sydney has massively high potential and is nowhere near her ceiling. All of Sydney‘s best days ahead of her. She is such an instinctual 1-on-1 defender with a very strong aerial presence. She is still very young in her career and has a lot of room to grow, but based on this first year at the professional level, she shows that she has what it takes to have a long and successful career,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole.

Studer finished 4th in the league and led the team in clearances (127). She also led the team in passes (1,320), blocks (14) and aerial duels won (65).

SAMANTHA LESHNAK MURPHY | ALL-LEAGUE SECOND TEAM

A mid-season addition from Pitea IF in Sweden, Leshnak Murphy started the final 12 games of the season for Carolina Ascent.

Coming into a stacked goalkeeping room, Leshnak Murphy’s play down the stretch produced results for Carolina Ascent, who went eight unbeaten in the Spring to win the Inaugural Players’ Shield.

“Sam was an important addition for us in the January transfer window. She came in and created competition with Golden Glove winner Meagan McClelland every single day. Our goalkeeping department has been very strong all season. Sam contributed to our team success with some very impressive performances in the second half of the season,” shared Carolina Ascent Head Coach Philip Poole.

The goalkeeper earned five clean sheets in her 12 games played, good for a 5th-place tie league-wide.

About Carolina Ascent FC
Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial teams of the USL Super League, a Division One professional women’s soccer league that 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. To join the climb and receive information on club news, season tickets and more, visit CarolinaAscent.com.