Kansas bred Adrianna Franch returns to her roots as she becomes Kansas City’s new star goalkeeper. After setting the record for shut-outs at Oklahoma State (OSU), Franch was the first OSU player to make the U.S. Women’s National Team. She has played as a member of the Portland Thorns since 2016. And set a league record in 2017 with 11 shut-outs; allowing her to achieve the title as the NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year. She also earned the award the following year, making her the only player to ever win the award twice. Kansas City is lucky to have snatched up a player of this talent right after her return from helping the U.S. Women’s National Team take home bronze in the Tokyo Olympics. However, before Franch played for the Portland Thorns, the Kansas native played for her high school’s team in Salina, Kansas.
This homecoming for Franch comes after she was replaced as a starter for the Thorns by 25-year-old Bella Bixby but it is not a random one. Kansas City coach, Huw Williams has a history with Franch dating back years. If you’re unaware, Williams coached one of the best club teams in the 2000s. However, his team always came second to the KC Comets Select; a team that was led to the Kansas State championship by a certain star player. Franch has always shown star qualities, even in her youth. And her years of hard work and dedication have definitely paid off.
Star Goalkeeper is Welcomed Home
“Now you’re on my team … at last!” says Williams to Franch during a press conference, the two explained their history with each other from Franch’s youth. Franch is now a key piece of Williams’s team and feels right at home. Franch says, “Kansas has been home. Kansas definitely is home, home away from my other home. Clearly, I love this sport, and I hope that shines through to everyone.”
I am happy to see Franch feels right at home. I also cannot wait to see Franch continue to shine as a star goalkeeper; as she makes the transition from Portland Thorns to Kansas City.
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