HERRIMAN, Utah (Monday, Dec. 18, 2023) – Utah Royals FC today signed former NC Courage, Racing Louisville and KC Current DF Addisyn Merrick, bringing the 2024 preseason roster for Head Coach Amy Rodriguez’ side to 14 players. Merrick’s new contract covers the 2024/25 NWSL seasons in Utah.
“I cannot wait to take this next step in my career, I’m beyond thankful for Utah for the chance to pursue this opportunity,” said Merrick, who made her NWSL debut in Utah during the 2020 Challenge Cup for the Courage. “In speaking to the leadership of the club, I’m so so excited to learn and seize this chance to grow. Amy has such an impressive resume, and Kelly has a ton of different experiences in her history in the sport.
“I’ve heard nothing but great things about those two and everyone else there that is looking to build and establish a great culture. The facilities are amazing, in talking to the other signings I know that we all feel fortunate to experience world-class surroundings. The detail that Amy and ownership have put into their plan, the women-specific thought that has gone into this project is simply amazing.
Merrick, a native of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, played four years at the University of Kansas, notching 87 appearances for the Jayhawks from 2016-19, logging a program-record 7,630 minutes for KU. During her senior campaign, Merrick was named the Big 12 Defender of the Year and earned First-Team All-Big 12 honors, while helping lead Kansas to the conference title.
“From the top down, it’s obvious to me that Utah is going the extra length in every possible endeavor to make the athletes feel comfortable,” continued Merrick. “We can feel their passion for development, implementing the values of hard work and creating a supportive atmosphere is all we could ever expect.
“I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about the fan support in Utah and how the community rallies around its teams, and I cannot wait to get out there and get started for our 2024 season.”
