NWSL Announces Combines and Thorns to Honor Christine Sinclair

The world of women’s soccer continues its historic momentum with several major developments this week. The Portland Thorns announced they will retire the iconic #12 jersey of legendary Canadian striker Christine Sinclair—inaugurating the club’s Hall of Fame and marking Sinclair’s enduring impact on the NWSL and international women’s soccer. The ceremony affirms Sinclair's status as one of the all-time greats, both for club and country.

In league infrastructure news, the NWSL’s Boston Legacy secured a substantial $100 million loan to support the White Stadium project, signaling robust investment and belief in the future of women’s professional soccer. Nationally, the NWSL is set to modernize its player recruitment by introducing combines for top prospects, replacing the traditional draft system. This progressive shift, highlighted by the launch of two initial combines, aims to more effectively identify and cultivate emerging talent, reflecting the league’s ongoing evolution.

Across collegiate soccer, key storylines include the Cleveland State Vikings opening Horizon League play, Kutztown University climbing to No. 17, and CBS Sports Network set to televise the Patriot League Women's Soccer Championship, boosting the visibility of the college game. Meanwhile, the Sun Belt and Ivy Leagues see high-stakes matches and tight contests as teams vie for early-season supremacy. Collectively, these advancements underscore the growing profile, investment, and evolution of women’s soccer at every level.