PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC have re-signed defender Emily Menges and midfielder Mana Shim, it was announced today.
Menges, 24, was a 2016 NWSL Best XI selection, starting all 20 games and playing every minute of every match, anchoring a defense that allowed the fewest goals in the league (19) during the regular season. In addition, Menges also earned her first call-up to the U.S. Women’s National Team in November 2016. A third-round pick by Portland in the 2014 NWSL College Draft, Menges currently ranks third in club history in games started (59) and minutes played (5,301), while ranking fourth in games played (60).
“Emily was one of the key reasons we had such a great defensive record last season,” said Thorns FC head coach Mark Parsons. “She made great progress throughout 2016, and I look forward to supporting her on making big strides again this season.”
In 2016, Shim, 25, appeared in 14 games (9 starts), tallying one assist for Thorns FC. Originally signed by Portland on April 5, 2013, after an open tryout, the Honolulu, Hawaii, native helped guide Thorns FC to the 2013 NWSL Championship during her rookie campaign. In four seasons with the club, Shim has appeared in 68 career games (43 starts) for Portland, recording nine goals and nine assists.
“Mana showed her ability to link and create while also developing her game on the defensive side in 2016,” said Parsons. “I look forward to seeing her continue this work and be ready to help the team any way she can.”
Portland will open its preseason camp for the 2017 season on March 13. Fans interested in purchasing Thorns FC Annual Memberships for the 2017 season are encouraged to call the ticket office at (503) 553-5555 or email ticketsales@timbers.com. Additionally, tickets for the Thorns Spring Invitational presented by Tillamook at Providence Park March 26-April 1 are available for purchase online at www.thornsfc.com.
