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Flopped Launch and New Squad Building: Boston and Denver’s Journey to the NWSL | Moving the Goalposts
Our newsletter dives into the contrasting strategies of two new expansion teams as they gear up for their debut in the fiercely competitive league next year.
On March 13, the NWSL will kick off its 14th regular season, solidifying its status as the premier women’s soccer league in the United States. This season marks a historic moment with the league expanding to 16 teams, a significant increase from its humble beginnings with just eight teams in 2013 and a notable jump from the nine teams that competed in 2020.
The buzz around the league’s expansion is palpable, as it opens up fresh avenues for fans and players alike in this ambitious league. As we reach the midpoint of the NWSL’s 13th season, which picks up again this weekend after a lengthy summer break, the question arises: how are the new and existing expansion teams faring?
Boston and Denver are taking center stage with their distinct approaches to building their squads. Boston is opting for a methodical, data-driven strategy, focusing on analytics to scout and recruit players who fit their vision. This approach aims to create a cohesive unit that can compete from the get-go. Meanwhile, Denver is embracing a more traditional route, relying on experienced scouts and coaches to identify talent and build a team with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young players.
Boston’s analytical approach is not without its challenges. Critics argue that relying too heavily on data can overlook the intangible qualities that make a player truly great. However, the team believes that this strategy will give them a competitive edge, allowing them to identify undervalued players who can thrive in their system.
On the other hand, Denver’s strategy of blending experience with youth is seen as a safer bet. By bringing in players with proven track records, they hope to establish a strong foundation while nurturing the next generation of stars. This approach has its own set of risks, as integrating players from diverse backgrounds and playing styles can be a complex task.
As the countdown to the new season begins, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these strategies will play out on the field. Will Boston’s data-driven approach lead to a well-oiled machine, or will Denver’s blend of experience and youth prove to be the winning formula? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the NWSL’s expansion is set to bring even more excitement and competition to the league.
With the league’s growth, the spotlight is on these new teams to deliver and contribute to the NWSL’s reputation as a top-tier league. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Boston and Denver to see how their journeys unfold in this thrilling new chapter of women’s soccer.