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Jeff Kassouf
Multiple Authors
The Chicago Stars have officially included forward Mallory Swanson in their active roster, making her eligible for the upcoming match against the North Carolina Courage this Saturday.
Swanson is making her return after maternity leave following the birth of her first child in November. Her last appearance for the Stars was during the 2024 NWSL season.
Swanson played a pivotal role as a starting forward for the United States during their quest for the gold medal at the 2024 Olympics, topping the scoring charts for her team with four goals, including the decisive goal in the final match against Brazil.
The Stars have faced challenges in her absence, currently sitting in last place in the NWSL standings with only six points from nine matches and a league-worst goal difference at minus-14, which is eight goals worse than the next team.
In January 2024, Chicago secured Swanson’s future by signing her to a long-term contract that extends through the 2028 season.
Since her acquisition via trade in 2021, Swanson has netted a total of 23 goals for the Stars.
At 28 years old, Swanson holds an impressive record of 38 goals in 103 appearances for the United States.
Swanson made her debut for the USWNT at the age of 17 in 2016 and was selected for the Olympic roster later that same year.
She turned professional in 2017, opting to forgo college. At that time, she was one of the few teenagers playing in the NWSL.
Her tenure began with the Washington Spirit before being traded to Sky Blue FC (now Gotham FC) in January 2020. Shortly thereafter, she was traded to Chicago, joining a team that did not have a regular season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.