Great news for Maisie. I hope she won't be stuck on the subs bench. What is the rest of the team like??
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/350247547/wellington-phoenix-star-macey-fraser-join-utah-royals-league-women-record-deal
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/350247547/wellington-phoenix-star-macey-fraser-join-utah-royals-league-women-record-deal
From what I've read young players initially struggle to get playing time in the NWSL. I'd say she will do well to make the subs bench, and may have some time with their 2nd team.
The USWL is likely one of the top 5 womens leagues in the world after all.
https://herfootballhub.com/12-womens-football-leagues-to-follow-in-2022-and-how-to-watch/
Fraser wasn't even considered good enough for the ALW until this season.
Gemma Lewis and Natalie Lawrence really bad at talent ID, or has Fraser's fast progress surprised all including Temple?
Edit - Though yeah reading the Stuff article, it sounds like she could be fast tracked into their first team. They are struggling being 13th of 14 teams, having only being restablished in the NWSL last year. They have an Aussie assistant coach, and Katie Bowen played for them from 2018-2020
The team is coached by former US international and 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup winner Amy Rodriguez.
“Macey is a player that can make an immediate impact on our team,” Utah sporting director Kelly Cousins said.
“Not only does she have the temperament, but has the technical and physical abilities to succeed in the NWSL.
“We are excited to welcome her to the club and to watch her develop here in Utah.”
Fraser described the move as an “unreal opportunity” and said she was grateful for Temple and the Phoenix for helping her rekindle her love for football.
https://us.soccerway.com/national/united-states/national-womens-soccer-league/2024/regular-season/r79504/
https://us.soccerway.com/national/united-states/national-womens-soccer-league/2024/regular-season/r79504/