The North Carolina Courage have secured midfielder Jaedyn Shaw from the San Diego Wave in a recent trade agreement.
The trade, made public on Tuesday, involves the Wave receiving a total of $300,000 in allocation funds, $150,000 in intra-league transfer payments, and an international roster spot for the upcoming two seasons. Additional financial components may be included based on specific conditions that may be fulfilled.
At just 20 years of age, Shaw boasts an impressive record with the national team, having played in 21 matches and netting eight goals. She was recognized as the U.S. Young Player of the Year in 2022 and was part of the team that clinched a gold medal at the most recent Olympics held in Paris, despite being hindered by a leg injury during the competition.
Shaw made her debut with the Wave as a 17-year-old and has since participated in three seasons in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), accumulating 14 goals and four assists to her name. Last season, she sought a trade, and under the new collective bargaining agreement established by the NWSL, players now hold the decisive power over trade approvals.
In a statement, Shaw expressed her sentiments about the transition, stating, “It’s been an absolute honor to start my professional career in this city and represent this club. The opportunity to pursue a new chapter is bittersweet, but I am excited about what lies ahead.”
Shaw’s adaptability allows her to excel in various positions, either up front or in the midfield, and her arrival is expected to enhance the Courage’s offensive capabilities—a unit that managed to score 34 goals over the course of 26 matches last season.
Courage coach Sean Nahas praised Shaw’s talent, remarking, “She is someone who has every tool at such a young age and will be a key part of our club. Her quality on the ball, both in possession and on the dribble, along with her levels in and around the box can unlock opposition.”
Currently, Shaw is training in Florida for the national team’s January camp, which was relocated from California due to wildfires affecting the Los Angeles area.
