Utah Royals FC announce Challenge Cup Roster

Utah Royals FC announce its roster for the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup.

Goalkeepers: Nicole Barnhart, Abby Smith, Melissa Lowder

Defenders: Elizabeth Ball, Rachel Corsie, Taylor Leach, Gaby Vincent, Katie Bowen, Kelley O’Hara (FED-USA), Mallory Weber, Marissa Sheva, Michelle Maemone, Maddie Nolf

Midfielders: Vero Boquete (INTL), Diana Matheson (FED-CAN), Desiree Scott (FED-CAN), Chestley Strother, Lo’eau Labonta, Aminata Diallo (INTL), Gunny Jonsdottir, Kate Del Fava (CDP)

Forwards: Brittany Ratcliffe, Amy Rodriguez, Arielle Ship, Tziarra King (CDP), Taylor Lytle, Holly Daugirda, Raisa Strom-Okimoto
As expected, Christen Press will not join Utah Royals FC during the tournament.

In the press release, Press explained:

“It is deeply painful not to be able to play the game I love, and to watch the broader effects of the global pandemic on our league, sports, and our world,” Press said. “Regrettably, given the uncertainty created by COVID-19, I must elect not to participate in this tournament. I know how fortunate I am to be able to make this choice. I have enormous respect and gratitude for those who do not have the luxury to choose whether to report to work, including our selfless and heroic first responders. I look forward to supporting my teammates during the tournament in Utah.”

French international Aminata Diallo, who signed with the club in March, is expected to join the team this week.