When the National Women’s Soccer League took over the Convention Center’s grand ballroom for its annual draft last week, a significant puzzle piece was missing: There was no Philadelphia team taking part.
It’s not for lack of fan interest. Philadelphia has a strong history of supporting women’s soccer, from the vast youth scene to attendance at professional and U.S. national team games. An NWSL team here would surely draw well, too.
“It’s a soccer city for me,” said Paul Riley, who coached the Philadelphia Independence in 2010 and 2011 and now coaches the NWSL’s North Carolina Courage.