NC Courage trade for Seattle Reign defender Merritt Mathias

The NC Courage have made another move heading into the 2018 season. The team traded their first round 2019 draft pick to the Seattle Reign for right back Merritt Mathias and the team’s second round 2019 draft pick.

In a statement provided by the team, coach Paul Riley said, “Merritt is a proven professional and has aspirations to play at the international level. She is powerful, quick and will provide a fantastic attacking spark out of the back. I drafted her in WPS, so I know her qualities. Love her mindset, final third prowess, and desire to push the envelope. The fans will embrace her attitude, bite and tenacity. Certainly a huge addition to our squad, and we look forward to getting the best out of her performance”

Mathias has been in the league since it started in 2013 and joined the Seattle Reign in 2014. She has seen regular playing time with the team and figures to be an option at right back. The Courage are looking to replace Taylor Smith and have brought in a number of defensive options in recent weeks from the NWSL draft to the dispersal draft.