Amanda Allen (Photo: Mark Thor/Orlando Pride)
Amanda Allen planned to attend Syracuse University and play for the school’s women’s soccer team. Then she joined the National Women’s Soccer League’s Orlando Pride for training in March during her high school spring break, and it became clear to her that the professional game was where she needed to be.
“I decided to join the Orlando Pride because they were very clear with their intentions to help me develop into the best person and player I can be,” Allen told The Equalizer. “It really wasn’t a question for me when the opportunity presented itself.”
The Pride announced on Monday that they signed the 18-year-old forward to a three-year contract through the 2025 season, another addition to the growing trend of NWSL teams signing players directly out of high school. Alyssa Thompson turned professional and was selected by Angel City FC with the first pick in this year’s draft. Twice in the past month, NWSL teams have signed 15-year-olds. All of this is possible…
