Boston Legacy FC Makes History with Signing of Annie Karich
In a landmark move for women’s soccer, Boston Legacy FC has officially signed its first-ever player, midfielder Annie Karich, as the club prepares for its upcoming NWSL debut. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the expansion team, which has made waves in the soccer community just as it gears up to compete.
A Promising Addition
Annie Karich comes to Boston Legacy FC on a free transfer from SC Freiburg in Germany’s Frauen-Bundesliga. Boston’s general manager, Domè Guasch, expressed his enthusiasm for the new signing, praising Karich’s technical skills and tactical awareness. “Annie brings a unique blend of technical quality and tactical awareness. She has also proved her competitiveness and maturity on the field, indicating her potential to make a real impact on our team,” Guasch stated.
Loan to Liga MX Femenil
To further develop her skills before joining the Boston squad, Karich will spend the remainder of 2025 on loan at Club América, a powerhouse in Liga MX Femenil. This strategic move allows her to sharpen her skills in a competitive league before entering the NWSL’s preseason in January 2026. The agreement keeps her under contract with Boston until the end of the 2027 season, with a club option for 2028.
Background and Experience
At just 21 years old, Karich already boasts an impressive résumé. She has made 36 appearances for SC Freiburg since making the leap from collegiate soccer at Santa Clara University. Originally from California, Karich has also represented the United States at various youth national team levels, giving her a well-rounded background that Boston hopes to build upon.
In her own words, Karich expressed her excitement to expand her game and adapt to a new environment. “I want to grow by developing my overall game as a player and by learning how to adapt again into a new city, new team, and everything, and I’m really excited to do that here in Boston,” she said.
Building for the Future
Boston Legacy FC is not just focused on signing players but is committed to a long-term vision of team development. Guasch emphasized that they are searching for talent with the potential to evolve into top players. “Our approach is about discovering talent as we build a roster,” he explained. With a head coach they trust, they aim to foster an environment conducive to player development.
Filipa Patão: Boston’s First Head Coach
Adding to the excitement, Boston Legacy FC has also announced Filipa Patão as their inaugural head coach. Patão brings a wealth of experience and a distinct coaching philosophy to the club. She aims for her team to be aggressive and passionate while emphasizing flexibility on the field. “If you are a good player, you can do everything. Because we need to be flexible,” Patão noted, advocating for a dynamic playing style that can adapt as needed.
Unique Challenges for Expansion Teams
As Boston Legacy FC and another expansion team in Denver prepare for their NWSL debuts, they face a unique challenge: building a competitive roster without the benefit of a player draft. To assist with this daunting task, the NWSL has granted them additional financial resources for salaries and expansion of their scouting and signing efforts. Moreover, both teams can now utilize in-league loans—a new and exciting feature within the NWSL.
A New Era Awaits
As the club gears up for its inaugural season in 2026, the soccer community is eager to see how Boston Legacy FC will shape the landscape of women’s soccer. The signing of Annie Karich is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for both the player and the franchise. With a focus on talent development, strategic player signings, and a commitment to community engagement, Boston Legacy FC aims to carve out its identity in the NWSL.
