Exciting News for Orlando Pride Fans!

In a thrilling development for the Orlando Pride, the team has officially signed forward Elyse Bennett to a short-term contract. This announcement comes as the Pride looks to bolster their lineup for the remainder of the 2025 season.

A Rising Star Joins the Ranks

Bennett, a dynamic 25-year-old talent, joins the Pride after an impressive journey through various NWSL clubs, including Kansas City Current, OL Reign, and San Diego Wave FC. With a wealth of experience and proven on-field performance, she brings a fresh perspective to the team.

Haley Carter on Bennett's Potential

Haley Carter, the VP of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director, expressed excitement about Elyse's arrival: "We’re excited to bring Elyse into our environment. She’s a player with tremendous upside. Her energy, professionalism, and attacking instincts perfectly align with our style of play and will greatly benefit our locker room."

Bennett's Impressive Track Record

Throughout her three-year professional career, Bennett has made 56 league appearances, netting five goals and providing numerous assists. Notably, in the 2022 NWSL Challenge Cup, she shone brightly, recording four assists in her first six matches and earning the NWSL Player of the Week accolade while playing for the Current.

Drafted and Traded: A Journey of Determination

Originally chosen as the 7th overall pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft by the Kansas City Current, Bennett has navigated a spirited journey through the league, also being part of the OL Reign and later picked by Utah Royals FC during the Expansion Draft before ultimately being traded to San Diego Wave.

Collegiate Success Before Turning Pro

Before embarking on her professional career, Bennett was a standout at Washington State University from 2017 to 2021. She made 93 appearances for the Cougars, scoring 26 goals and earning accolades like the All-Pac-12 First Team and United Soccer Coaches All-American Second Team in her final season, where she achieved career highs in goals (10), shots (93), and minutes played (1,557).

Looking Ahead: A Promising Future with the Pride

As the Orlando Pride gears up for the rest of the 2025 season, fans are eagerly anticipating what Elyse Bennett will bring to the field. Her blend of experience and youthful enthusiasm marks a promising chapter for the team.