Gotham FC celebrates second NWSL championship title at City Hall
NEW YORK (WABC) -- Excitement and revelry filled the air as teeming crowds of fans watched Gotham FC go by in a celebratory ticker tape parade on Monday.
Mayor Eric Adams presented Gotham FC with the Key to the City of New York in commemoration of the team's second National Women's Soccer League championship title.
"We are so proud to be recognized with this special honor at City Hall," said Carolyn Tisch Blodgett, governor, Gotham FC. "This team earned a championship through the very grit, boldness, and excellence that defines this region, and we loved the opportunity to celebrate our championship with our Gotham FC community."
The lauded team arrived back at Newark Airport Sunday night after defeating the Washington Spirit in Saturday night's finals.
The championship match was 0-0 until the 80th minute, when midfielder Rose Lavelle scored the game-winning goal.
Lavelle was also crowned MVP of the match.
The players shared how big this win was and what it means for the team.
"We're feeling very good. Obviously that was a very tough match for us and we had a tough playoff run but this team came together. We believed in each other and I'm just so proud of everyone, said midfielder Jaelin Howell.
"Obviously winning is amazing and I love these girls and I'm just happy to bring home a trophy," midfielder Jaedyn Shaw added.
Representing New Jersey and New York with top global talent, Gotham FC is one of 16 clubs in the NWSL.
The club brought home its first NWSL championship trophy in 2023.
Two years later, Gotham FC captured the first continental club trophy in North American women's soccer history by winning the inaugural 2024-25 CONCACAF W Champions Cup, earning qualification for the first editions of the FIFA Women's Champions Cup and the FIFA Women's Club World Cup.
In celebration of Saturday night's win, City Hall and other buildings will be lit in the team's signature blue to honor the champs.
"Gotham Football Club have inspired thousands of soccer fans and young girls and boys to believe in themselves, to be brave, to be bold, and to be fierce - fueled by the team slogan: 'Always Building, Never Finished,'" said Mayor Adams. "In a city that never settles for less, Gotham FC reminds us of what it means to fight for greatness, to defy expectations, and to win with heart. Their victory is more than a championship; it's a statement that women's sports belong on the biggest stage. New York doesn't just watch history; we make it, and we will celebrate the women who are redefining it."
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