Kansas City Current has become a powerhouse in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Since its founding in 2020, the team has risen quickly to become a top contender. With strong ownership, a talented roster, and dedicated fans, the team is making its mark. Let’s explore the team’s journey, its key players, and its exciting future.
Angel City FC: A Rising Power in Women’s Soccer
Founding and Ownership
Kansas City Current was established as an expansion team in 2020. This came after Kansas City had lost its previous NWSL team, FC Kansas City, in 2017. The Current’s ownership group is a driving force behind its success. The group includes Brittany Mahomes, wife of NFL star Patrick Mahomes, and Chris and Angie Long. Their financial backing and leadership have allowed the team to thrive. In 2023, Patrick Mahomes officially joined the ownership group, further strengthening their ties to the Kansas City sports community.
Brittany Mahomes, a former college soccer player, has been instrumental in pushing the team forward. Her passion for the sport, combined with the support of her husband, has made a significant impact on the team’s visibility and success. Their involvement has attracted more fans and attention, both locally and nationally.
Stadium and Facilities
Kansas City Current has a new, state-of-the-art home. CPKC Stadium, which opened in 2024, is the first NWSL stadium designed specifically for a women’s team. The stadium seats 11,500 fans, creating a fantastic atmosphere for home games. It’s designed to provide an intimate experience while also offering the excitement of top-tier soccer. This purpose-built facility represents a major milestone for women’s soccer, showing that the league is growing and deserving of its own dedicated spaces.
Fans attending games at CPKC Stadium enjoy excellent views and modern amenities. The stadium’s design focuses on fan experience, ensuring that every match is memorable. This venue has already become a symbol of the team’s commitment to excellence.
Coaching and Management
In 2023, Kansas City Current hired Vlatko Andonovski as head coach and sporting director. Andonovski, formerly the head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team, brought a wealth of experience. His leadership and expertise are crucial as the team continues to grow. Under his guidance, the Current has focused on improving their tactical discipline and cohesion on the field.
Andonovski’s coaching style emphasizes a strong defensive structure while encouraging fluid attacking play. He has instilled a winning mentality, pushing the players to reach their full potential. With Andonovski at the helm, Kansas City Current will be successful.
Key Players
Kansas City Current’s roster features several standout players. Forward Temwa Chawinga is one of the most exciting talents in the NWSL. The Malawian striker made history in 2023 by becoming the first player in NWSL history to score 20 goals in a season. Her goal-scoring ability makes her a constant threat to opposing defenses. Chawinga’s presence on the field has elevated the team’s attacking play, and she is a player to watch in the coming years.
Midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta is another key player for the Current. LaBonta is creative and a great passer. She often acts as the team’s playmaker, setting up chances for her teammates. Her vision and technical skills make her one of the best midfielders in the league. LaBonta’s contributions in the middle of the park are vital to the team’s success.
Defender Elizabeth Ball is a cornerstone of the team’s defense. Ball is strong in the air, excellent at reading the game, and tough in tackles. Her leadership at the back has helped Kansas City maintain a solid defensive record. Ball’s experience and reliability make her one of the league’s top defenders.
Bay FC: The Newest Force in Women’s Soccer
Recent Performance
Kansas City Current has enjoyed a solid start to their NWSL journey. In 2024, the team finished fourth in the regular season, earning a spot in the playoffs. Although they were knocked out by the Orlando Pride in the semifinals, the Current’s progress was evident. Their ability to compete with the league’s best teams shows that they are a growing force.
The team’s performance in the playoffs was a sign of their potential. Even though they didn’t win the championship, their strong finish proves that they are a team to be reckoned with. As the team continues to develop, their playoff experience will be invaluable moving forward.
Community Engagement
Kansas City Current commits to its community. The team has launched several programs to inspire the next generation of soccer players. The “Current Kids” program, for example, encourages young athletes to get involved in the sport. By offering soccer camps, clinics, and mentorship opportunities, the team is making a real difference in the community.
In addition, the Current has partnered with local organizations like the United Way of Greater Kansas City. These partnerships allow the team to give back to those in need, helping to improve the lives of people in the area. The Current’s involvement in community initiatives has helped solidify its place as an important part of Kansas City’s sports culture.
Looking Ahead
Kansas City Current is building something special. With strong leadership, talented players, and an incredible fan base, the team is poised for even greater success. The recent investments in the squad, as well as their new stadium, demonstrate the team’s commitment to becoming a dominant force in women’s soccer.
Under the guidance of Vlatko Andonovski, the team will continue to improve. The current roster has the talent to compete for league titles, and they will be a serious contender for years to come. As the team builds on its strong foundation, the future looks bright.
Conclusion
Kansas City Current is a rising star in the NWSL. The team will have long-term success. As they continue to grow, both on and off the field, the Current will undoubtedly become one of the top teams in women’s soccer. Fans of the team can look forward to many exciting seasons ahead. The rise of Kansas City Current marks an exciting chapter for the NWSL, and the best is yet to come.
Chicago Stars FC: A Rising Force in American Soccer
Keep the conversation going! Follow Soccer Wizdom on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Youtube for more soccer insights and updates.