Houston Dash sign Allysha Chapman to new contract
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash have signed veteran defender Allysha Chapman to a new contract through the 2026 season with a mutual option for 2027. Chapman, currently in her second stint in Houston, returned from maternity leave in 2024 and helped contribute to a solid defensive unit for the Dash.
The Canadian international first joined the Dash in 2015 after spending time in Sweden. She left in 2016 but returned in 2018 after brief stints with the Boston Breakers and North Carolina Courage. Chapman has grown to be a fan favorite in Houston and will not enter her 9th season with the Dash.
“The experience and resiliency Allysha brings to the team was evident in the final stretch of the season following her return from maternity leave. Allysha made an instant impact, and her defensive contributions helped the team earn key points against some of the best teams in the league,” interim general manager, Erik Ustruck said. “She has also contributed so much to the organization over the years, leading the team to a trophy and reaching the postseason for the first time in team history. We are ecstatic that she will remain in Houston as we navigate this transition and build on the foundation of this team.”
Chapman, who will turn 36 next month, brings a veteran presence and leadership to the club, a constant that players can look to even when there have been many struggles around the Dash. After returning last season after the birth of her son, Chapman appeared in 8 games and became the starter at left back for six of the final seven matches.
“I’m very happy to re-sign with Houston. I’ve spent most of my professional career here and I can’t think of a better place to write the closing chapters,” Chapman said. “We’re looking for a fresh start next year and a new look. I’m very excited to be a part of that.”
Chapman will likely start again as the team’s left back with newly aquired Christen Westphal at right back. This will allow Avery Patterson to play more forward in a winger role. It is still yet to be seen how the team will play with their new head coach but a defense led by Chapman, Wespthal, Tarciane, Paige Nielsen, Katie Lind, and Natalie Jacobs is a great foundation to build off of. Center back Jyllissa Harris also signed a new deal with the club today and adds youth and depth to the unit.
