The Chicago Red Stars signed their 2024 first round draft pick, LeiLanni Nesbeth to a three-year contract. The FSU graduate is signed with the team through 2026.
From the moment she stepped on the draft day stage, LeiLanni exuded energy, enthusiasm and a desire to win. She brings a lengthy resume from her time at FSU: 2-time NCAA Champion, NCAA All-tournament team, and selections to the ACC All-Conference second team. Her ability to hold on to the ball and play in tight spaces ought to make an immediate impact in the Chicago midfield.
Credit: @FSUSoccer
Chicago Red Stars general manager, Richard Feuz happily welcomed the signing in the team press release. "We are very happy to welcome Leilanni to the Red Stars and look forward to seeing her develop her game to this next level in her career.”
Speaking on Red Stars Media Day, Nesbeth said the thing she’s looking forward to the most is winning games. “I wanna win games, man, I’m so excited… I’m excited to be in that atmosphere, and play against players I’ve looked up to, and just go to war. I’m ready to fight.”
The Red Stars will need that fight this season as they hope to rebound from a last-place finish in the 2023 standings. Their season kicks off in Sandy, Utah against the Royals on March 16th.