North Carolina Courage Signs Title Winning Midfielder Carly Wickenheiser to Two Year Contract
The North Carolina Courage officially bolstered their roster on Saturday by acquiring Canadian international Carly Wickenheiser via transfer from Swedish side BK Häcken. The 28-year-old midfielder signed a guaranteed contract through the 2027 season, a move that reunites her with newly appointed head coach Mak Lind just weeks before the preseason begins.
2025 Struggles Prompt Roster Overhaul Under New Leadership
This acquisition arrives at a critical juncture for the organization following a disappointing 2025 campaign where the club finished ninth and missed the playoffs. Management has responded by overhauling the technical staff, they appointed Mak Lind earlier in January to steer the team back toward championship contention. The club previously established itself as a league powerhouse by winning both the Shield and Championship in 2018, recent seasons have required significant tactical adjustments to maintain that standard. Recruiting players familiar with Lind's system appears to be a central strategy for stabilizing the squad during this transition period, it ensures the new coach has trusted lieutenants on the pitch.
Canadian Midfielder Brings European Experience to North Carolina
Wickenheiser joins the National Women's Soccer League after a highly successful tenure in Europe, she recently played a pivotal role in securing the 2025 Damallsvenskan title for BK Häcken. The permanent transfer involves an undisclosed fee paid to the Swedish club, this transaction locks the midfielder into a fully guaranteed deal that spans the next two seasons through 2027. Chief Soccer Officer Ceri Bowley emphasized that Wickenheiser's arrival addresses specific needs, noting her "professionalism, work ethic, and intensity" as qualities that fit the team's direction.
The St. Louis native originally developed her skills at Texas Tech University where she served as captain, she later launched her professional career in Sweden's second division before climbing to the top tier. Her resume includes stints with KIF Örebro DFF and Kristianstads DFF, she wore the captain's armband at the latter before her championship run under Lind's guidance last year. Wickenheiser expressed eagerness regarding the transfer, stating she looks forward to "joining this environment" and continuing her growth as a player in the American league.
Reunion with Coach Lind Streamlines Tactical Integration
The existing relationship between Wickenheiser and Coach Lind offers an immediate advantage for the Courage, it reduces the typical acclimation period required for international signings. Wickenheiser is expected to anchor the midfield by providing defensive stability while facilitating offensive transitions, areas where the team struggled during the previous season. This move also places the 28-year-old on a larger stage ahead of major international tournaments, potentially boosting her standing with the Canadian national team following her debut in the 2025 Pinatar Cup.
North Carolina continues to reshape its roster ahead of the 2026 season opener with high expectations for a playoff return. Officials expect Wickenheiser to join preseason training immediately upon receipt of her International Transfer Certificate and visa.
