On Friday, March 22, during the Utah Royals 2-1 win against the North Carolina Courage, URFC defender Imani Dorsey suffered a season-ending injury.
It was a bittersweet evening for the Royals, between losing such a strong leader on and off the field and the Club’s first win of the season. The week prior during the Royals’ home opener, Dorsey returned to the field for the first time in more than a year after taking a break from the sport in 2023 to focus on her mental health.
After making a successful return to the sport and starting the first two matches during the “Return of Royalty,” Dorsey was subbed off right before halftime against the Courage due to a ruptured achilles.
While this is undoubtedly a frustrating and difficult time for Dorsey, staff from across the Club wanted to share messages of support to her to let her know she’s not alone on her road to recovery.
Laura Lee - Marketing
“You are such a force for good on this team. Our hearts are with you and we wish you a quick recovery.”
Lita Quero - VP Human Resources
“Imani, I loved watching your hard work and tenacity on display! Remember, tough times don't last - tough people do! Can't wait to see you out there soon.
Warmest wishes, Lita”
Alex - Finance
“So glad you at least got to play for a few games and so sorry you have to go through this! The team will definitely feel your absence but are excited for your return! Enjoy the down time, go out to bars, watch a lot of movies, do whatever you want :) You got this!”
Johnny Keeley - Marketing
“Imani, you're a special person and someone who's demonstrated so much strength throughout your career. We know you'll get through this frustrating time, and I hope you know you have a whole Club to lean on.”
Rosanne Simpson - URFC Partnerships
Hello Sunshine - I am sending you all the positive energy of healing to you. Remember that your mind is a powerful tool. Start to imagine everything is ALREADY healed and what that would look like and more importantly what that would FEEL LIKE! You Got This.
Scott Reynolds - Ticketing
“Imani- safe recovery - so sorry about what has happened. I had an achilles tear suffered in a staff game a year ago and I am still supposed to be doing exercises. I am sure you will be much better (and faster) about getting back, and we will all be looking forward to that. Thoughts and Prayers! -Scott Reynolds, Director-Group Ticket Sales & Services”
Lacey Hancock - Ticketing
“Hoping for a full and healthy recovery. We will wait patiently and supportively for your return, you are so valuable to us.”
Zui - URFC Communications
“Hey Imani, super happy to hear the surgery went ok! Hope everything goes well with your recovery and we can't wait to have you back with the group. I know you're going through a rough time, but know that all of us are in your corner and rooting for you.”
Brook Bingham - Corporate Partnerships
“Imani, so sorry to hear about your injury. I have been working closely with Sean Dunroe from Select Health, and he was so excited to see you play this year! I too was excited. My wife played D-1 locally for the University of Utah, (ages ago); and we have been counting the days when the Royals came back. Injuries suck. But as you know, they're inevitable. But you seem like a super positive, driven, charismatic human, who will find strength in this small setback. Recover well so we can cheer you on as soon as possible!”
Amy Rodriguez - URFC Head Coach
“We got your back Imani! Praying for a full and healthy recovery!”
Connor Buhler - Ticketing
“Imani,
We were so saddened to see you suffer your injury in the last match. We know that it will be difficult, but we are behind you in your recovery 100%. You are a vital piece to this team, on and off the field, and we know you will come back stronger than ever! We are lucky to have you as a part of our organization, and we are with you during this tough time.”
Kiki Solano - Marketing
“You have our full support during this difficult time Imani! The entire club has your back. Wishing you a speedy recovery”
Keagan - Ticketing
“Dear Imani,
I was deeply saddened to hear about your recent injury. I want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate through this challenging time.
Your resilience and strength have always been an inspiration to me, both on and off the field. I have no doubt that you will approach this setback with the same determination and courage that you bring to every aspect of your life.
While the road to recovery may seem daunting at times, please remember that you are not alone. There are so many ready to offer their unwavering support and encouragement.
Take all the time you need to rest and heal, and know that we eagerly await your return to the field.
Wishing you a speedy recovery and sending you all the positive energy in the world.”
Kendall Griffith - Marketing
“Imani,
We wish you the best in recovery and know that myself and everyone at the club is with you 1000% of the way. I hope you feel the love and support we all have for you, and I can't wait to see you crush your rehab!
Your path back to soccer did not deserve this, but just know it's a roadblock your courage, resilience, and perseverance will overcome. You got this, can't wait for the comeback!!”
Connor Oniki - URFC Front Office
“Hi Imani, we are cheering for you and rooting for you every step of the way. The impact you have already had on Utah Royals and on the Utah community is immeasurable, and we are so excited for you to be a part of every step of the future. Thank you and we are cheering you on!!”
Delmy Barillas - Communications
“Imani, wishing you a speedy recovery during this time. We're all with you and stand by you.”
Marck Mendoza - Marketing
“Get well Imani, all love and support in your recovery.”
Jake Jensen - Operations
“Imani,
We are all heartbroken to see your Achilles injury this past week. Please know that you have the full love and support of all of us here in the organization during your recovery process. As one who has been through this personally on both of my Achilles, I know you will bounce back stronger and better from it. May I be the first to welcome to the proud elite club of "Utah Soccer Achilles Scars Ambassadors"! You got this and we have your back. Much love!”
David Stobbe - Corporate Partnerships
“Hi Imani, I'm David Stobbe and I work in the front office. I'm so sorry about what happened during the game...I know your pain because I ruptured my right achilles when I was 21 back in 2018. I'm sure you'll do better in terms of rehab, but I hope it goes well. You'll be back on the field in no time!”
Sandee Lynn - Finance
“I am so sorry about your injury. I hope you have a speedy recovery.”
Michele Williams - Corporate Sponsorships
“Imani,
Sending love and positive energy your way as your recover from your injury. Hoping you feel the support of your RSL and URFC family. We are here for you for the long haul and look forward to your continual progression. Please take care!”
Lindsay Wyson - Marketing
Hey friend, already miss seeing you at training. You know your strength & we all can’t wait to see you progress day by day. We are all here behind you!! Remember how much you are loved!
Anonymous
“Hi Imani! We haven't been introduced, but I'm proud of your contributions so far this year, and I thank you for being a key piece of the Royals return to Utah. You will come back stronger!”
Jamila Cuentas - Academy Admin
Anonymous
“Imani! Wishing you the best on your road to recovery and knowing that soon you will be back on the pitch. You are a fighter and a fighter with a humble heart. And of course scooter is saving lives”
“Imani, the strength you have exhibited on and off the field thus far in your career has served as both a rock and as inspiration for so many of us, in a way much, much more impactful than you could ever imagine ...
Your fans know that you will exhibit the same strength, character, determination and resolve as you endure this physical battle to get back on the field at the appropriate time, and we all hope that you know we still need your very credible voice to be heard on behalf of Utah Royals, the NWSL and athletes / fans everywhere!
We look forward to seeing you on the road to recovery!”
Anonymous
Imani, we are all so sad to hear about your injury. You are a valuable member of the URFC team and we are hoping for a speedy and full recovery.
