Despite the result, Christen Press and Sydney Leroux, two seasoned veterans in the NWSL, showcased their skills in Friday night’s match between Angel City FC and the Portland Thorns. In a league increasingly influenced by newcomers and teenage players, Press and Leroux are a rarity. At 35 and 34, respectively, both have dealt with their fair share of setbacks and injuries. Still, they persevere, fueled by their passion for the game.
Press’s Long Road to Recovery
After two years of injuries – a torn ACL and four knee surgeries – Press returned to the field this summer. Earlier this month, in her 100th NWSL career game, Press celebrated her return by scoring her first goal since injury. “It felt like an out of body experience,” Press reflected. Although Press didn’t score in Friday night’s match against the Portland Thorns, she still registered two shots on goal, closing out her first season back with nine appearances and recording 10 shots.
A true competitor, Press shared that “It’s too funny because since I got injured, people were counting the amount of days I didn’t play soccer, but I was counting the amount of days I had not scored because my true love is scoring.” For Press, what began as a recovery process that many of her teammates had already undergone evolved into a complicated injury that required multiple revision surgeries. As a result, she had to shift her focus to not only her physical rehabilitation but, more importantly, on her mental recovery. “But it never even dawned on me to give up. That’s just how I’m wired,” Press said.
“But it never even dawned on me to give up. That’s just how I’m wired.”
Leroux’s Comeback and Advocacy
Leroux and Press have played together and against each other for years. Leroux expressed her excitement about having Press back on the pitch. “We’ve been playing with and against each other forever, so it’s nice just having a friend back,” she said. Recovering from an ankle injury in 2023, Leroux made a comeback this season, recording seven goals in 25 matches.
Leroux has also been a vocal advocate for the NWSL to reassess its childcare policies in light of the Angel City FC salary cap sanctions. A fan favorite in the NWSL, she is affectionately known as the “favorite soccer mom of women’s soccer.” Leroux emphasized that “the NWSL should not force a mother to choose between chasing her dreams or having children, nor should teams be forced to choose between having mothers on their roster or not.” Throughout her time in the league, Leroux has returned to play after experiencing two pregnancies. Leroux is a powerful advocate in the women’s soccer community, inspiring positive change for the next generation of girls and women in sport.
Looking Ahead for Press and Leroux
Down 3-0 on Friday night with little hopes of making a comeback, Press and Leroux were both subbed out in the second half. Combining for three shots on goal in the second half, these seasoned veterans created many goal scoring opportunities for Angel City and have hopes to play for many more years. Leroux just signed a three-year extension contract with Angel City FC, while Press’ contract will be up at the end of the 2025 season.
Injuries, setbacks, and changing lifestyles can’t take away a player’s love of and passion for the game. Press and Leroux have demonstrated resilience, skill, and determination that have defined their careers. In a league brimming with young talent, these two veterans continue to stand out – not just for their experience, but for their unwavering passion and commitment to the game. With plans to keep competing for years to come, Press and Leroux remain role models, showing that passion for the game is limitless.
