The Spirit held an open practice in front of an expected crowd of around 6,000 fans at Audi Field
The Washington Spirit invited fans to an open practice on Monday, March 11, at Audi Field. Gates opened at 5pm and gave fans time to shop for new merchandise and get some food before practice started at 6pm. It was blustery and chilly but otherwise a nice night for soccer and the turn out was quite robust.
Before training began, the team announced that they had signed 6 rookies who had been in preseason camp (draftee Anna Podijil has not yet reported due to injury). Drafted first year players Croix Bethune (midfielder, third overall pick), Hal Herschfelt (midfielder, fifth overall pick), Kate Wiesner (defender, seventh overall pick), Makenna Morris (midfielder, thirteenth overall pick), and Courtney Brown (midfielder, 49th overall pick) were joined by non-roster invitee Heather Stainbrook (midfielder) in signing their contracts ahead of the 2024 season.
Training began with the team taking the field and starting a series of warmups. They went through a series of short runs and stretches before moving to long runs from sideline to sideline. The team running toward the crowd across the field gave the fans a chance to really cheer them on and it was clear that the players truly appreciated the support.
After the warmups the team got to real business, spending the remainder of the hour-long practice doing rondos, passing practice, and finally a whole team scrimmage-type period using the small goals as targets. A final stretch and talk with the coaches ended the session.
The team then took a walk along the sideline so they could wave up to the crowd.
Then they were all given a few t-shirts to toss up into the stands, which was definitely popular for both the players and the fans.
After the session, season ticket holders were given the chance to get some autographs.
The NWSL season kicks off this weekend. The Spirit will start in Seattle on Sunday, March 17th and will then be back home against new team Bay FC, on March 23rd at 7:30.
Post and Photos by Kelley Piper
More Photos From the First Look Event
