Orlando Pride shakes up NWSL with Zara Chavoshi’s groundbreaking college signing | OneFootball

The Orlando Pride announced the signing of Zara Chavoshi, a defender fresh out of Wake Forest University, to a one-year contract through the 2025 season. Without the NWSL Draft, Pride has become the very first club in the league to sign directly from college. And honestly, what might seem like just another roster addition at face value actually has significant symbolism attached to it.

The strength behind Zara Chavoshi

Zara Chavoshi is anything but an ordinary player. During her four years at Wake Forest University, she was synonymous with stability and defensive quality. Her consistency on the field not only helped to create a solid defense but also led the team to historic results. In her last collegiate season, Chavoshi started all 24 matches, recorded two assists, and was a key piece in 10 clean sheets. And, if that wasn't enough, she helped the team reach the National Championship for the first time in Wake Forest history.

The Pride's vision moving forward

Pride VP of Soccer Operations and General Manager Haley Carter laid it straight that this is what the club would expect from her: "She's a quality defender, someone we can count on providing depth and some more competition for the backline this year.”

This is a mentality that befits a team striving for something more. Last season, Pride were an ambitious outfit proving to the entire NWSL that they were ready to compete for titles. And that is exactly why this addition of Chavoshi in such a scenario makes so much sense. She's coming into an environment that values effort and development, which will be key in helping her adjust to the professional level.

Zara Chavoshi is ready to make history

Zara hasn’t hidden her excitement about the opportunity. In her own words: “Orlando Pride showed the entire country last season that they are an incredibly hardworking and talented team, deserving of an NWSL title. I’m honored to have the opportunity to contribute to their continued success.”

But the leap from college to the professional ranks is always a jump. At college, Chavoshi was a leader and a defensive anchor. Now, she'll have to prove her worth against some of the best players in the world. The Pride, for their part, seem ready to ease her into that process, providing the tools for her to continue developing her game.

The impact of this signing on the NWSL

But it is not just a win for Pride; signing Zara Chavoshi also carries larger ramifications with the NWSL. When the Draft was taken away, one of the big questions was how the transition of collegiate players into professional teams would look. Orlando Pride has set an important precedent in investing in Chavoshi. She is an example that even though the old draft format may be gone, the talent will continue to be found and valued.