San Diego Wave FC announced on October 15, 2026, that midfielder Lia Godfrey has signed a three-year contract extension through 2029 following a standout rookie season in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Godfrey originally signed a two-year contract through 2027 after completing her collegiate career at the University of Virginia. She made her professional debut on March 14, 2026, as a substitute against the Houston Dash. During the 2026 season, she made 27 appearances with 19 starts, scoring six goals and recording five assists.
Her six goals were tied for second most among NWSL rookies that season, and her five assists made her the fifth rookie in league history to reach at least five assists in a single season. Godfrey set a new San Diego Wave FC club record for single-season game-winning goals with four. She earned NWSL Rookie of the Month honors and was named to the league’s Best XI for March 2026.
Before turning professional, Godfrey was a four-time United Soccer Coaches First Team All-America at the University of Virginia, a semifinalist for the 2025 MAC Hermann Trophy, and the ACC Midfielder of the Year in her final collegiate season.
San Diego Wave FC General Manager and Sporting Director Camille Ashton said, “Lia has made an immediate impact in her first professional season, demonstrating her ability to not only compete but excel at this level. She has been a key to our success this season, and we are excited to continue supporting her development as she remains an important part of this club moving forward.”
CSB Take
Extending Lia Godfrey through 2029 is a strategic move by San Diego Wave FC to retain a dynamic young midfielder who has already shown significant impact as a rookie. Her record-setting performances and league-wide recognition underscore her value to the team’s competitive ambitions. This contract extension reinforces the Wave’s commitment to building a strong core and stability in their midfield for coming seasons.
Source: Original report
