PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC have signed defender Meghan Klingenberg to a two-year contract with a one-year option, it was announced today.
“Kling plays a critical role in setting the tone for us, on and off the field. The passion and energy she contributes to this team is what we want people to see and feel when they come to a game,” shared Karina LeBlanc, Thorns FC general manager. “Re-signing her to a multi-year deal was an important factor when looking at the future of this team, and we feel very lucky to have a player of Kling’s caliber and character on our roster.”
The 2022 season will mark Klingenberg’s seventh with the club. In 2021, Klingenberg played in 22 matches (20 starts) – tied for the second-most appearances by a player with the club. She logged 1,657 minutes and finished the campaign tied for the team lead with three assists. The Gibsonia, Penn. native was part of a defensive unit that set a new single-season shutout record in 2021, while helping the club win three more trophies (NWSL Challenge Cup, Women’s International Cup, NWSL Shield).
“Kling takes great pride in being a Thorn, and we love having her as one. She lives and breathes what being Thorn is all about. Her passion for the team and the fans is obvious and infectious, her energy and passion for the game has become a driving force for the team. Her leadership qualities in all areas help connect players with one another and the community,” Thorns FC head coach Rhian Wilkinson said. “On the field, she provides a spark with her work ethic, crossing excellence, and ability to get up and down the line for 90 minutes plus. We are thrilled to have her back in the red and black.”
A two-time NWSL Second XI selection in 2017 and 2021, Klingenberg has appeared in 125 matches (121 starts), while recording 19 assists across all competitions. In total, Klingenberg has helped Portland win six total titles with the club, including the 2016 NWSL Shield, 2017 NWSL Championship and 2020 Community Shield.
With Portland in regular-season competition, she has played in 102 games, making 99 starts with over 8,000 minutes played and 15 assists. She currently ranks third all-time in club history in games played, games started and minutes played, while she is tied for second-most assists all time.
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