2025 Position Group Preview - Goalkeepers
(image via US Soccer)
The offseason is over and the National Women’s Soccer League season begins this week. The Houston Dash will get their 2025 campaign underway on Friday. The Dash went through a number of changes this offseason, from a new head coach to new key players on the roster. Leading up to the first match against Washington Spirit we’ll be breaking down each position group, the players within the group, and some expectations for them. Next up, we look at the goalkeepers.
Liz Beardsley
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): In college
Projected 2025 Role: Emergency goalkeeper
Beardsley was signed to a short-term contract this week after joining the Dash as a non-roster invitee in preseason. She spent the last two seasons at the University of Maryland where she posted 11 clean sheets in two seasons. Before that, she spent time at the University of Georgia. Beardsley will serve as cover for the other goalkeepers while on the short-term deal.
Jane Campbell
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 25 appearances, 113 saves, 8 clean sheets
Projected 2025 Role: Starting goalkeeper
Campbell is coming off a stellar season, doing everything possible to keep the Houston Dash competitive. Despite her efforts, off- and on-field issues left the team at the bottom of the standings. Still, Campbell remains the undisputed starter for club and now country, recently featuring as the USWNT’s number 1 in the SheBelieves Cup. A veteran leader, she has been a rock in a turbulent Houston environment. Looking ahead to 2025, only injuries could keep her off the field, given her expected workload.
Heather Hinz
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 1 appearance, 5 saves
Projected 2025 Role: Backup goalkeeper
Hinz, drafted by the Houston Dash in 2024, made her league debut in the season finale, stepping in for an injured Jane Campbell. Despite a 3-2 loss to Bay FC, she impressed with key saves and was impressive during the Summer Cup where she filled in for Campbell while she was away at the Olympics. Loaned to Fort Lauderdale United FC this winter, Hinze gained experience with two USL Super League appearances. In 2025, she could see more action as Campbell’s backup, especially during national team call-ups.
Abby Smith
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 0 appearances (with Gotham FC)
Projected 2025 Role: Backup goalkeeper
Smith, a former Texas Longhorns standout, has been a journeywoman throughout her NWSL career. She began the 2023 season with eventual champions Gotham FC but suffered a significant injury that sidelined her for nearly a year and a half. Now in Houston after an offseason trade, the veteran goalkeeper brings experience and skill as she works her way back to full fitness. She will compete with Hinz for the backup role while adding valuable depth and leadership to the Dash’s goalkeeper unit.
