The Late Sub with Claire Watkins

Vlatko Andonovski Is Out & the NWSL Coaching Carousel Keeps Spinning Sep 17, 2026 1781 The NWSL coaching carousel is in full swing, and Vlatko Andonovski’s exit from the Kansas City Current might be the most confusing move yet. Claire breaks down why KC moved on after so much recent success, what the players’ reactions say about the decision, and whether all of this change could come back to haunt them in the playoff race. Plus, Seb Hines is out in Orlando, Houston and Chicago are m

Gotham & Washington Spirit Are Leaving the Rest of the NWSL Behind & Here's Why Sep 10, 2026 1662 The NWSL Shield race looks like it’s down to two teams, Gotham and the Washington Spirit. While they are both battling at the top of the table, Claire takes this week to look at some of their differences and how two teams so similar couldn’t be MORE different. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:57 Washing & Gotham Leading Shield Contenders 04:57 Th

Watch the WSL Now, Thank Us at the 2027 World Cup: Girma, Fox & USWNT Stars Overseas | The Late Sub Sep 3, 2026 1505 Claire breaks down everything USWNT fans need to know as the WSL looks to kick off. Some of the world’s best stars have made their way to England! Here’s everything you need to know to become a WSL fan ahead of the World Cup. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:59 A Guide to the WSL 08:40 USWNT Stars in the WSL 14:14 NWSL Money Moves 17:09 London Ci

Ashley Sanchez Forcing Her Way Into the USWNT Conversation & Emma Hayes Should Listen | The Late Sub Aug 27, 2026 1641 Ashley Sanchez is having an NWSL season to remember. After falling out of the USWNT, Sanchez is making a case that she can't be ignored. Claire takes this week to put the spotlight on Sanchez and why Emma Hayes should call her up for the next camp. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:42 Ashley Sanchez’s MONSTER Season 06:57 The Sanchez Story

Racing Louisville Has a BIG Problem… Can Emma Sears & Bev Yanez Right the Ship? | The Late Sub Aug 20, 2026 1669 Claire takes this week takes the time to do a deep dive into the troubles in Louisville. Racing has a fan attendance problem, but is ownership making fans the scape goat for their errors? Bev Yanez has the team on a 4 game winning streak, is there still time to right the ship? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:43 Going Deep on Louisville 04:44 Wha

Portland’s Shield Hopes Are in TROUBLE… Olivia Moultrie OUT for the Season | The Late Sub Aug 13, 2026 1696 Claire takes this week to zoom out on the NWSL and see how five teams are trending. With Olivia Moultrie out for the season, an already struggling Portland Thorns team could be on a skid. Washington is feeling the burn out from a packed schedule. Seattle is looking like the Reign of old, and Gotham sits atop the table with the league’s best defense. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, membe

These WAFCON Teams Will Surprise Everyone at the 2027 Women's World Cup Aug 6, 2026 1364 Claire digs into all the action at W AFCON. With a stacked group C and a tournament filled with some of the BEST NWSL talent, could one of these nations be the surprise of next year’s World Cup? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 05:38 Best Players in the World? 09:10 STACKED Group C 15:35 Closing in on the Semis 20:13 Goal of the Tournament Just Wom

Is Emily Sonnett in Danger of Missing the 2027 World Cup? Knee Injuries Explained Jul 30, 2026 1510 With Emily Sonnett down with an undisclosed knee injury, Claire takes this moment to dive into the injury window. How can Gotham keep up with a back line that's looking thinner by the moment? What other teams are plagued by injury? And most importantly, what World Cup implications do injuries have from here on out? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduct

USWNT World Cup Roster DEBATE: The Players We Think Emma Hayes Picks ft. Ali Riley Jul 23, 2026 2693 Ali Riley joins a special edition of the Late Sub to help Claire break down the biggest questions for the USWNT roster as we look WAAAAAAAAAAAY too far ahead to make some BOLD statements the potential World Cup roster. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Ali Riley Joins the Show 02:34 Initial Roster Thoughts 08:18 Forwards 22:17 Midfielders 29:19

Alexia Putellas, Mary Earps & Michele Kang's Big Bet on London City: Building a Women's Soccer Empire Jul 16, 2026 1733 This week, Claire breaks down some of the biggest moves by Michelle Kang and she builds out her soccer empire across women’s soccer. Kang’s most recent signings are bringing the London City Lionesses looking like a European powerhouse, and Kang has shown her commitment to NWSL by making the same hard stances for the Washington Spirit, particularly resigning Trinity Rodman. This episode is present

Trinity Rodman Is UNSTOPPABLE… But Who Is the Best Team in the NWSL? | The Late Sub Jul 9, 2026 1632 This week Claire digs into the teams sitting at the top of the NWSL table as the shield race heats up. Trinity Rodman is better than ever as Washington Spirit ride a win streak. Sophia Smith and Portland are cruising. KC is always in the mix with Temwa Chawinga. And how much can we make of Utah’s loss to Chicago. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:

Breaking Down the BIGGEST NWSL Storylines: Sam Kerr, Lindsey Heaps & a HUGE MVP Surprise? Jul 2, 2026 1636 This week Claire gets into all the biggest questions as the NWSL comes back from a very long break. How quickly can Sam Kerr make an impact with Gotham? Can Lindsey Heaps get Denver Summit into the playoff picture? Is MVP Barbara Banda’s to LOSE? Can Utah continue their dream run? And what does anyone make of Angel City after all their changes? Plus could there be a HUGE sleeper in the NWSL MVP c

Grading EVERY NWSL Transfer: Sam Kerr, Ally Sentnor, Kennedy Fuller & MORE Jun 25, 2026 1493 This week Claire digs into all the NWSL transfer window CHAOS, and grades each move! Sam Kerr reportedly ready to sign with Gotham, Kennedy Fuller to Bay, Ally Sentnor to Angel City, and ACFC Head Coach Alex Straus is OUT. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:49 Sam Kerr to Gotham 03:51 How Does Kerr Fit? 09:37 Money Moves and Grading the Kerr Signin

Predicting EVERY Player on the USWNT 2027 World Cup Roster... WHO Was Left Off?? Jun 18, 2026 1688 After a few illuminating USWNT matches against Brazil, Claire takes her first stab at predicting the USWNT 2027 World Cup roster.The one questions that looms large, can Catarina Macario get healthy in time to snag a spot on the forward?This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC.Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-19

Breaking Down EVERY Moment of Chaos in USWNT vs Brazil | 8 Red Cards! | The Late Sub Jun 11, 2026 1916 Claire breaks down the aftermath of a CHAOTIC couple of friendlies between the USWNT and Brazil. Games that saw more cards than a round of poker. Plus we’ll take a look at the roster and what these games tell us about who’s ready for the World Cup in 2027. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-nig

NWSL SHOCKERS: Sophia Wilson, Utah Royals, Tierna Davidson & MORE | Plus MVP & Rookie of the Year WATCH Jun 4, 2026 1669 As the NWSL heads into the June break, Claire takes a look at some of the biggest surprises around the league. Utah is looking legit, Gotham’s low margin soccer keeps the Bats winning, Houston & Angel City are in free fall. Plus we take a look at the rookie landscape and frontrunners for this season’s MVP are some familiar names. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Challenge

Breaking Down the Biggest SNUBS & SURPRISES on the USWNT June Roster Drop | Plus What Does Ashley Sanchez Have to Do? May 28, 2026 1649 Emma Hayes dropped a fresh USWNT roster ahead of the team’s friendlies against Brazil. Claire breaks down every position, including some surprises and snubs. Plus why can’t Ashley Sanchez earn a call up despite an MVP caliber NWSL season? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:30 USWNT Injured Players 04:13 Triple Espresso is BACK 06:55 Forward

“She Won’t Be the Same Player” | Can Mallory Swanson Still Be an ELITE Player Post Pregnancy May 21, 2026 1438 This week Claire takes a deep dive into the return of Chicago’s Mallory Swanson. The evolution of her game, how much does being on a struggling Chicago team impact her chances for the USWNT roster, and what’s Chicago’s SMART PLAY for getting her back to full form? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:46 Returning from Pregnancy 04:29 The Evolu

USWNT World Cup Roster WATCH: Who Impressed, Who Disappointed, & Who She Didn't See AT ALL on Emma Hayes NWSL Tour May 14, 2026 1489 Claire breaks down Emma Hayes's tour across the NWSL. Who she saw exceed expectations, who shrunk under the spotlight, and who she didn't bother to see at all. With an eye toward 2027, Emma Hayes has her sights on the USWNT pool of NWSL talent. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:38 Who Did Emma Hayes Watch? 04:55 Who Emma SKIPPED 07:13 Beyo

Ranking EVERY NWSL MVP Candidate | Barbra Banda, Trinity Rodman, Rose Lavelle & MORE | Plus Rookie of the Year Favorites May 7, 2026 1347 Claire breaks down the NWSL MVP race with Orlando's Barbra Banda leading the way. If the race ended today, she's taking it. A WILD golden boot race with Ashley Sanchez, Olivia Moultrie keeping Portland at the top of the table, and Rose Lavelle Leading Gotham. Plus NWSL Rookie of the Year watch! This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:14 Barbra

Lindsey Heaps Makes Denver Summit Contenders | Plus $205 Million Columbus Expansion Team for the NWSL 2028 Apr 30, 2026 1473 In this week's episode of The Late Sub Claire breaks down the difficulties of being an expansion team, how Summit is headed in the right direction and why Lindsey Heaps can get them over the hump. Plus Columbus's $205 Million NWSL expansion team. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historical

The USWNT Doesn't Have Time For Trinity Rodman to Find Her Form Before the World Cup Apr 23, 2026 1424 Presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC Claire dives into the evolution of Trinity Rodman's game, and the growing pains that come along with it. The million dollar question is will she find her form for the USWNT and Spirit sooner than later? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underf

Breaking Down EVERYTHING that Went WRONG in the USWNT's Loss to Japan | The Late Sub Apr 16, 2026 1630 Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newslett

EVERYTHING That’s Gone WRONG For Gotham & Why the NWSL's Reigning Champs Can't Score | Plus the Surprising Houston Dash Apr 9, 2026 1479 Two of the biggest surprises this season have been Gotham & Houston. One has shocked the NWSL by soaring up the table, while the bats are underperforming as reigning champs. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a l

Breaking Down EVERY Position in the USWNT Roster Release Apr 2, 2026 1445 In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down every position group in the USWNT roster release for their 3 game friendly matchup against Japan. Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson make their returns. Can Olivia Moultrie take her success with the Thorns to the National Team in a crowded midfield. Plus finding depth at outside back. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twi

Three takeaways from a chaotic NWSL start Mar 25, 2026 1126 In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down three of the NWSL weekend’s trends as the chaos begins in earnest, including red cards galore, talent evaluation, and Angel City’s deepest roster yet.

Catarina Macario shows tide turning in NWSL Mar 18, 2026 1369 In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down the big picture of Catarina Macario’s impending debut in the NWSL, in the context of last years USWNT exodus turning into a more balanced season upon which a lot of US decisions will be made about the rising stars of the NWSL.

Who’s ACTUALLY going to be good in the NWSL this season Mar 10, 2026 1603 The NWSL season has arrived and we've got everything you need to know on this week’s episode of The Late Sub. Who’s improved, what can fans expect on the field, and who's ultimately competing for a title in 2026.

The good and the bad of the SheBelieves cup Mar 5, 2026 1463 In this week's episode, Claire takes a look at the USWNT's first two SheBelieves Cup games, crediting the team's control, ability to turn the field, and roster integration, while still asking a few questions about attacking setup and best personnel in key areas.

How USWNT stars abroad are performing Feb 24, 2026 1388 In this week’s episode, Claire checks in on how USWNT players have been faring in Europe, as they prepare to rejoin the U.S. prior to this weekend’s SheBelieves Cup. She talks instant success, and the few question marks that still exist as the USWNT’s club balance leans more European than ever.

European stars return to the USWNT Feb 18, 2026 1308 In today’s episode, Claire takes a deeper look at the upcoming USWNT SheBelieves Cup roster: who's in, who's out, with notes from Emma Hayes’s press conference following the squad announcement.

Triple Espresso’s return is imminent Feb 9, 2026 1169 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks downs the ins and outs of NWSL media day, the return of Triple Espresso, some key injury updates, and some interesting notes from chatting with the NWSL’s best and brightest prior to preseason kicking off.

Is Arsenal the best team in the world? Feb 4, 2026 1092 In today's episode, Claire reflects on the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup: what Arsenal's victory means, some of the logistical hiccups shaping the tournament, and how FIFA can use the first iteration of the competition to improve international club competitions — but only if they're invested in the product.

Winners and Losers of USWNT Jan Camp Jan 28, 2026 1236 In this week's episode, Claire takes a big picture look at the USWNT's January camp in its entirety after two dominant wins against Paraguay and Chile - the winners, the lost opportunities, what she thinks will actually be carried by the team into the future and what might just be a showcase of what US soccer can show fans right now.

Captain Trinity Rodman returns to the US Jan 25, 2026 1336 In today's episode, Claire gives her immediate takeaways from the USWNT's 6-0 win over Paraguay. New leadership structures, a wealth of versatility, and a few exciting debuts and returns to set the tone for the team's World Cup qualifying year.

Three USWNT players to watch Jan 20, 2026 1295 In this week’s episode, Claire digs into the USWNT’s January camp roster, pointing out one player from each positional line that she’d like to see get serious time on the pitch in the team’s two upcoming friendlies. She talks roster health, positional fits, and the key element of timing as players establish themselves as consistent options at the international level.

What Lindsey Heaps’s transfer means for the NWSL Jan 13, 2026 1430 We're back! In this week’s episode, Claire ranks her favorite offseason NWSL transactions: the good, the pretty good, and the headscratchers. She talks transfers into the league, a rumored big departure, and what projects are coming together faster than others.

Five bold women’s soccer predictions for 2026 Dec 17, 2025 1458 We're closing out 2025 with a bang! In this week’s episode, Claire makes a few predictions for 2026, chatting about transfer possibilities, World Cup qualifying, way too early MVP candidates in more. Thanks everyone for listening through a great year of soccer, we’ll see y’all in January.

The NWSL is failing Trinity Rodman Dec 11, 2025 1328 In this week’s episode, Claire runs down the timeline that’s led to Trinity Rodman’s contract dispute with the NWSL, where the league is falling short and the pressure the ongoing saga places on one of the most exciting talents in the game.

The 4 BIGGEST takeaways from the USWNT vs Italy Dec 4, 2025 1333 Subscribe: https://pod.link/1563105123 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down the USWNT friendlies against Italy. Claire shares her biggest takeaways heading into 2026, from what these lineups told us about the midfield, what its means to have Naomi Girma back, and what opponents shouldn't do against his team. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twitter/X (@s

Gotham gamed their way to a title! Nov 24, 2025 1435 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down NWSL championship weekend, on getting a sense of both Washington and Gotham’s dynamics going into Saturdays game, and how the Bats put themselves in a position to strike for a second championship in three years. Then, she does a quick breakdown of this week’s USWNT roster, as the team prepares to close out the year against Italy.

The Spirit are peaking at the right time! Nov 18, 2025 1941 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down last weekend’s semifinal action, and previews a championship game between two of the more ambitious clubs in the entire NWSL. Then, she chats with Bay FC defender Abby Dahlkemper, about Sutter Heath and the club’s support for family planning as she plans for a very exciting 2026.

How Gotham SHOCKED the KC Current Nov 13, 2025 1275 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down what she got right and what she got very wrong about the NWSL quarterfinals, which team has the biggest chip on their shoulder, and what may or may not happen when the semifinals hit this weekend.

Four bold predictions for the NWSL Playoffs Nov 6, 2025 1203 In this week’s episode, Claire roots for chaos as the NWSL postseason begins by making four bold predictions about the upcoming quarterfinal round. Which underdogs can take it to the full 90, what tactics are most likely to prevail, and yes a bracket buster or two.

The USWNT has decisions to make Oct 30, 2025 1263 On this week’s episode, Claire breaks down the second two matches in the USWNT’s October window: who stood out, what question marks remain, and what the U.S. can take out of three very different performances over the course of the week from both a coaching and a player pool level.

Is the USWNT taking a step backwards? Oct 24, 2025 1519 In today's episode, Claire goes long on the USWNT opening the October window with their first-ever loss to Portugal: why the team's setup didn't help players succeed, what went wrong as the US chased the game, and how the team can adjust going into a rematch on Sunday.

The USWNT October roster is here! Oct 16, 2025 1449 *Note: This episode was recorded before Trinity Rodman left Wednesday's game with an injury* This week, Claire breaks down the roster for the USWNT’s upcoming October friendlies. Who made it, who is still on the outside looking in, and Emma Hayes’s comments as the team nears the year-mark until next fall’s World Cup Qualifying tournament.

How did US stars play in the Champions League? Oct 10, 2025 1166 In today’s episode, Claire breaks down the first week of 2025/26 UWCL action, as the USWNT contingent in the competition grows in size every year. She chats about the level of importance USWNT manager Emma Hayes places on the tournament, and how USWNT players are fairing in the early going of the league phase.

NWSL changing of the guard Oct 2, 2025 1483 This week, Claire reflects on the retirement of Angel City captain Ali Riley, amidst a larger generational shift in the NWSL that has seen giants of the game step away while young stars rise. How has the league’s new CBA impacted the overall storytelling as the league creates new stars, and has the NWSL taken advantage of a quiet year for the USWNT?

Do better, Ballon d'Or... Sep 25, 2025 1367 In this week’s episode, Claire reflects on this week’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, breaking down the issues with modern football awards that can leave the women’s game looking like an afterthought, especially for players neither from or playing in Europe.

Can the NWSL salary cap keep up with stars like Jaedyn Shaw? Sep 11, 2025 1514 In this week’s episode, Claire reflects on the news Jaedyn Shaw is making a record NWSL transfer to Gotham FC, breaking down how million dollar trades work within a salary cap system that nonetheless keeps salaries restricted. She chats transfer growth, salaries vs transfer fees, and why certain players earning big ticket salaries doesn’t end the concerns risen by the high profile transfer of Alys

Alyssa Thompson's transfer is concerning for NWSL Sep 4, 2025 1339 In this week’s episode, Claire discusses the implications of Alyssa Thompson’s possible impending transfer to Chelsea, with the WSL season upon us primed to have its biggest season ever, and the NWSL trying to keep up in an ever-shifting global market.

Kansas City Current: Championship or Bust | The Late Sub Aug 28, 2025 1330 In this week’s episode, Claire takes a deeper look at Kansas City’s historic success this season, what on-field tweaks Vlatko Andonovski has implemented to set the team up for long-term consistency after falling just short in 2024, and what an almost assured Shield win might mean for the team’s championship chances.

NWSL trades we'd like to see! Aug 21, 2025 1403 This week, Claire takes a look around the NWSL and proposes a few suggestions to a hypothetical league-wide trade market after the return from the international break has garnered mostly draws. What should your team do to shore up their roster before the end of the regular season?

Is Portland back? A deep dive into the Thorns Aug 14, 2025 1268 In this week's episode, Claire takes a deeper look at the Portland Thorns after their expectation re-setting win over Seattle. She talks through why on their best day the Thorns could be a serious postseason contender, why they still need to raise their floor, and why it matters that one of the founding clubs of the NWSL finds their way.

Ranking the NWSL rivalries Aug 7, 2025 1477 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down NWSL Rivalry Week, ranking each of this weekend’s matchups into tiers based on drama potential, national relevance, regional history and more. Which games have the juice, and which ones feel more like they’re being stashed.

The NWSL returns! A preview into the remainder of the season Jul 31, 2025 1385 The NWSL is back, and we’ve got a lot to catch up on! This week, Claire takes a trip through the NWSL standings, talking first half surprises, disappointments, individual performances, and who could end up hoisting the Shield and Championship trophies at the end of the season.

Can England upset Spain? A look into the Euros final Jul 24, 2025 1257 The Euros final is here, with two usual suspects matching up in a World Cup rematch that features two very different styles of football. Claire breaks down how we got here, as England keeps their unlikely story going against a Spain team that has looked near unbeatable all tournament.

Who's going to win the Euros? Jul 16, 2025 1194 In this week’s episode, Claire looks back on the 2025 Euro’s group stage, challenging her own pre-tournament predictions, underdog stories and heavyweights showing off, setting the tone for the knockout stages. How much did she get right? Let’s find out.

Way too early USWNT World Cup qualifying roster Jul 10, 2025 1436 In this week’s episode, Claire takes a look at the larger USWNT player pool and compiles her way too early World Cup qualifying roster. She talks hopeful returns, new names that have played themselves into the mix, and positional battles that are resolving themselves faster than expected.

Who Stood Out for the USWNT Jul 3, 2025 1619 This week, Claire breaks down another very strong international window for the USWNT after they looked dominant against Ireland and Canada. She talks impressive performances, the return of set pieces, and a few minor tweaks still to be made before things get serious in October.

A USWNT fan's GUIDE to the Euros Jun 26, 2025 1338 This week, Claire takes a break from soccer action in the U.S. to give an American soccer fans perspective on the upcoming Euros: favorites, underdogs, NWSL connections, and who might be in danger of crashing out of the group stage.

Rose Lavelle’s return to the USWNT Jun 18, 2025 1342 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down the recently-announced USWNT roster for three upcoming friendlies - talking about how to avoid player burn out, happy returns, fresh faces, which positional groups are still up in the air and which areas are beginning to feel a little more set.

Where does the Washington Spirit go from here? Jun 12, 2025 2069 On this weeks episode, Claire sits down with USA Today and Pro Soccer Wire writer Jason Anderson, to talk about Washington Spirit manager Jonatan Giraldez jumping ship for OL Lyonnes, including this means for the team’s roster, how this impacts Michele Kang’s multi club ownership, and just how salty about this move fans should be.

Who is stepping up for the USWNT Jun 4, 2025 1324 This week, Claire digs into the performances that stood out in two big USWNT wins to close out the international break, including a big step forward in the goalkeeping race and a midfield project with many layers. She also lists her missed opportunities, as the year of great roster experimentation crosses the six month mark.

USWNT roster: Who’s in and who’s out May 29, 2025 1283 In today’s episode, Claire discusses the quiet importance of this weeks international window for the U.S., as Emma Hayes’s system takes full effect. She talks about players who missed the cut, fresh faces ready for a chance to shine, and what the team can expect in their two upcoming friendlies. Note: this episode was recorded before Gisele Thompson was pulled from the USWNT camp due to injury.

Is Debinha running away with NWSL MVP? A look into the current top candidates May 15, 2025 1147 On this week’s episode, Claire presents her MVP candidate shortlist as the NWSL season dips into the second third of the year. Attackers have been reigning supreme, but which pros and cons could lead to the biggest individual award of 2025?

Everyone gave up on the San Diego Wave way too quickly May 8, 2025 1195 Subscribe: https://pod.link/1563105123 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down what many believed to be the implosion of the San Diego Wave losing the likes of Alex Morgan and Naomi Girma, but did we assume to much. With this season's start, it may show they are set up for success. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twitter/X (@scoutripley) and sign up for th

The Gotham FC superteam experiment was a failure May 1, 2025 1305 Subscribe: https://pod.link/1563105123 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down what happened to Gotham's superteam, and whether the NWSL is built for them. With this season's start, it may show they are better off than they were last season. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twitter/X (@scoutripley) and sign up for the Just Women’s Sports newsletter at justw

What Trinity Rodman’s injury means Apr 24, 2025 1195 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down Trinity Rodman’s newly reported indefinite absence from the Washington Spirit, as she rehabs an ongoing back injury that could reshape the prospects of both the Spirit and the USWNT.

Angel City: The good and the bad, a deep dive into the future of the club Apr 17, 2025 1272 On today’s episode, Claire takes a look at Angel City’s early success in the young 2025 NWSL season, starting from the carousel of the club’s early days to a young core ready to take the next step. Could the playoffs be back in Angel City’s future?

The USWNT's youth movement hits a bump in the road Apr 10, 2025 1300 Welcome back to another season of The Late Sub! Claire sits down to talk through the USWNT’s youth movement, the search for Alyssa Naeher’s successor, Trinity Rodman’s return and more.

NWSL predictions: Champion, Shield, MVP and more Mar 18, 2025 989 The NWSL is back for 2025, and so are we! Claire hops on the mic to chat NWSL opening weekend, way too early predictions, teams rising, falling, and everything in between.

Women’s Sports Wishlist: A look into 2025 Dec 31, 2024 1560 It’s the final Late Sub of the season, and Claire is looking ahead. She talks wishes for 2025 including USWNT experimentation, NWSL parity, WNBA tactical evolution and more. Thanks to everyone who listened this year!

What a year for women's sports: an end end of year recap Dec 23, 2024 1240 In this week’s episode, Claire takes a trip down memory lane, talking through her favorite and most memorable women’s sports stories of the year. She talks the explosion of basketball, the transformation of the USWNT, an Olympics to remember and more.

Lynn Williams is traded to Seattle, plus a nice salute to USWNT legend Becky Sauerbrunn Dec 20, 2024 1413 In today's episode, Claire gives a salute to the career of USWNT legend Becky Sauerbrunn, and reflects on the end of an era for both the NWSL and the US as titans of the game step away. Then, she gives initial reactions on a major NWSL trade that’s sending Lynn Williams to Seattle, sets up a quick viewing guide for the weekend, and more.

Is Hannah Hidalgo National Player of the Year? Dec 17, 2024 1593 In today’s episode, Claire takes a deeper look at Notre Dame’s big win over UConn, what it means for the early NPOY race, and some very encouraging signs for TV viewership. Then, she touches on the Euros draw, the NCAA volleyball tournament, college prospect signings in the NWSL, and more.

Building a basketball team with Natalie Nakase Dec 12, 2024 1274 In today’s episode, Claire hits a few big women’s sports headlines before sitting down with Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase to talk through the expansion draft, building a roster from scratch, how she’d like her team to play and the fundamentals that she thinks will build a lasting locker room culture of winning.

Don’t count out South Carolina, plus a quick look in NCAA soccer & volleyball, the PWHL, and NWSL free agency Dec 10, 2024 1375 In today’s episode, Claire takes a look at Golden State’s expansion draft and South Carolina’s great week dominating two Top 10 matchups. She then takes a trip around the world of women's sports, including NWSL free agency, and more notes on college soccer, NCAA volleyball, PWHL hockey and more.

BIGGEST college basketball surprises, plus a quick dive into the WNBA, PWHL, and college volleyball Dec 5, 2024 1475 In today’s episode, Claire takes a break from the soccer trenches to catch up on all the goings on in other women’s sports in the states. She chats college hoops, WNBA upheaval, hockey stars, volleyball conference dominance and maybe just a little bit of soccer updates because who can stay away.

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