2025 Position Group Preview - Midfielders
(image via Houston Dash)
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. Today, we continue with the midfielders.
Belle Briede
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 17 appearances
Projected 2025 Role: Backup midfielder
Briede has proven valuable to the Dash midfield, particularly when closing out games or stepping in during injury absences. While she hasn’t been able to ignite the midfield with her presence on the ball, she continues to play a crucial role as a reliable bench option. With the significant additions to the midfield, Belle is expected to provide support off the bench in 2025.
Danielle Colaprico
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 23 appearances (with San Diego Wave)
Projected 2025 Role: Starting holding midfielder
A veteran defensive midfielder, Colaprico brings much-needed stability to the Dash midfield. Her experience with Chicago and San Diego equips her with the ability to cover ground and neutralize threats, making her a vital addition to the team. Colaprico’s presence should offer the Dash a reliable anchor in both defense and midfield.
Maggie Graham
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): In college
Projected 2025 Role: Backup midfielder
Graham enters her rookie season with high expectations after an impressive career at Duke University. Head coach Fabrice Gautrat has already used her extensively during the preseason, showing confidence in her ability to play various roles across the team. While rookie seasons can be challenging, Maggie, the reigning ACC Midfielder of the Year, aims to prove she deserves a starting position.
Barbara Olivieri
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 24 appearances, 4 goals, 2 assists
Projected 2025 Role: Starting attacking midfielder/winger
Olivieri enters 2025 on the back of one of her best professional seasons. As a key figure in the Dash attack, she has proven her worth and is set to build on her previous success. With new midfield and attacking additions, Barb will have the opportunity to elevate her game even further. After years of anticipation, she’ll also be sporting the number 10 jersey, a symbol of the high expectations surrounding her.
Sarah Puntigam
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 23 appearances, 2 assists
Projected 2025 Role: Backup midfielder/center back
Puntigam proved her versatility in 2024, playing both in midfield and even in defense when the team needed her. As a key veteran piece, she offers invaluable experience and leadership. The main question for 2025 will be whether she continues as a midfield anchor or shifts primarily to a defensive role, but her ability to adapt will be a key asset regardless of position.
Sophie Schmidt
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 23 appearances
Projected 2025 Role: backup midfielder/center back
Schmidt, a veteran presence in the midfield, may not have had the same impact as in previous seasons, but she still brings a wealth of experience to the squad. With younger, fresh talent vying for spots, it’s uncertain how much Schmidt will contribute over a full 90 minutes. Nevertheless, her ability to influence the game off the bench or in a center-back role will remain valuable.
Delanie Sheehan
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 26 appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist
Projected 2025 Role: Starting midfielder
Sheehan is a dynamic midfielder capable of playing in multiple positions, including forward. Though her exact role for 2025 remains unclear, she has been a key part of the Dash’s preseason preparations. Sheehan’s familiarity with Yazmeen Ryan, the team’s star attacking piece, will allow them to build on their successful partnership from their time together in Gotham, further strengthening the Dash’s midfield.
Kiki Van Zanten
2024 Stats (NWSL Play): 4 appearances
Projected 2025 Role: Backup midfielder
Van Zanten’s rookie season was cut short by injury, and her return date is still uncertain. While the team has not provided major updates on her recovery, it’s likely that they will take a cautious approach in reintegrating her into the lineup. Once healthy, Kiki will be eased back into action, with minutes coming sparingly to ensure her readiness for the season.
