The Portland Thorns FC Academy celebrated its Class of 2024 at Providence Park over the weekend, recognizing a group of 17 seniors who have committed to collegiate programs.
The college commitments will take these seniors all over the country, from the east coast at Rutgers to the south at TCU or Texas Tech, and even right here at home at Oregon, Oregon State or Portland State.
For the Thorns Academy, this group of seniors has had a special impact on the program.
“The Class of 2024 has propelled the Thorns Academy into the spotlight by cultivating a special group of elite players ready to excel at the next level,” said Tracy Nelson, director of coaching. “We take immense pride in the relentless hard work, dedication, and commitment displayed by these seniors, positioning themselves as a college student-athlete and continuing their soccer career. Their collective achievement not only helps in building their futures but also establishes a new benchmark for what's attainable within the Thorns Academy.”
At 17 players, this senior class is the largest group of players that the Thorns Academy has had sign commitments to play at the collegiate level, reflecting the Academy’s commitment to preparing players for the next levels.
“Our primary aim is not only to nurture players into top-tier athletes, but to pave their path towards collegiate, national, and professional playing opportunities,” said Nelson. “Our devoted staff exemplifies unwavering dedication, collectively driving the Academy's success. It's a collaborative effort among players, staff, coaches, and members to help our athletes achieve greatness. We will continue to explore new avenues to ensure our players reach their goals and dreams and unlock their fullest potential.”
The Thorns Academy’s Class of 2024:
Shaela Bradley (Rutgers), Jaclyn Barritt (Northeastern State), Ella Callanan (San Diego), Maleigha Canaday-Elliott (Oregon), Clotine Chase (Oregon), Kate Cheldelin (Washington), Abby Cox (Texas Christian), Emily Davidson (Western Washington), Morgan Duke (Nevada), Ellie Felt (Oregon State), Kennedy Fletcher (Arizona), Sadie Gardner (Texas Christian), Malia Groshong (Colorado – Colorado Springs), Alana Harry (Texas Tech), Elsie Koehler (Lesley Univ.), Sydney Spotts (Portland State), Eva Thomsen-Marr (Denver)
Thorns Academy teams begin the 2023-24 ECNL season in December.
