NEED TO KNOW:
DF Natalie Jacobs re-signed with the Dash through the 2024 season
Jacobs made 10 starts in 15 appearances and contributed to Houston’s six clean sheets
Jacobs joined the Dash as a National Team Replacement player following one season in Spain’s top division
HOUSTON – The Houston Dash and defender Natalie Jacobs have agreed to a new contract through the 2024 season, the team announced today.
“Natalie brings professionalism and experience to our backline. She can play multiple roles for us and adds versatility, along with tools to join the attack frequently as a defender,” Dash general manager Alex Singer said. “We are excited she chose to continue her career with the Dash and look forward to having her back in 2023.”
Jacobs made 10 starts in 15 appearances during the 2022 regular season after joining the club as a National Team Replacement Player in April.
Jacobs made her Dash debut on May 15 against Racing Louisville FC and earned her first start on July 8 on the road against the Orlando Pride.
The defender became a key figure in Houston’s defensive unit and played a key role in Houston’s six clean sheets last season. The Coto de Caza, California native also made an impact in the final third by tallying three assists last season.
Prior to joining the Dash, Jacobs spent time in Spain’s top division with Real Betis Féminas. Jacobs was drafted No.13 overall by the Washington Spirit in the 2020 NWSL College Draft. The 25-year-old played collegiately at the University of Southern California where she made 45 appearances and Notre Dame University where she made 42 appearances.
“I’m so excited. It’s going to be my fourth year in the league. The Dash has been from top to bottom the most amazing place I’ve been,” Jacobs said. “(The club) is so professional, supportive, competitive. It’s been great since I got here. I’m just very thankful that the Dash believe in me and that I get to be a part of this because it’s a really special place.”
With the return of Jacobs, Houston now has 17 players under contract. The current Houston Dash roster can be found listed below in alphabetical order and by position:
Goalkeepers (2): Jane Campbell, Ella Dederick
Defenders (5): Julia Ashley, Allysha Chapman, Caprice Dydasco, Natalie Jacobs, Katie Naughton
Midfielders (3): Shea Groom, Sophie Schmidt, Marisa Viggiano
Forwards (7): Michelle Alozie, Joelle Anderson, Ryan Gareis, Paulina Gramaglia, Nichelle Prince, Ebony Salmon, Maria Sanchez
TRANSACTION: Houston Dash sign defender Natalie Jacobs through the 2024 season.
