Denver, Colorado – The Denver Summit FC, Colorado’s newest NWSL expansion team, is rapidly shaping a roster that blends experience, leadership, and international potential. With the inaugural 2026 season approaching, the club has made strategic moves to establish itself as a serious competitor in women’s professional soccer.
The club appointed Nick Cushing as its first-ever head coach. Cushing, previously of Manchester City Women and New York City FC, brings global expertise and a proven record in developing elite talent. His hiring signals Summit FC’s ambition to implement a disciplined, attacking style while nurturing a cohesive team culture.
The signings highlight the club’s deliberate mix of experience and potential. Kaleigh Kurtz, a veteran defender, joins Summit FC after setting an NWSL record with 107 consecutive starts — an Iron Woman streak unmatched in league history. GM Curt Johnson emphasized her leadership and professionalism, noting that Kurtz will anchor the backline and mentor younger players. Her presence provides both stability and a model of consistency crucial for a debut season.
Forward Ally Watt, a Colorado native, became the club’s first-ever player signing. She brings local roots and top-flight attacking ability, while Lourdes Bosch, an international midfielder from Melbourne City, adds creativity and global experience to the squad. These signings reflect a strategy of combining homegrown talent with international flair, giving Summit FC tactical flexibility across the pitch.
Adding further prestige, Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin is part of the ownership group, strengthening local support and visibility.
Analytically, Denver Summit FC’s roster strategy is notable: the team balances defensive solidity, creative midfield options, and attacking potential while fostering leadership both on and off the field. With Cushing’s guidance and Kurtz’s record-breaking reliability, Summit FC is not just preparing for its debut — it is laying a foundation for long-term competitiveness in the NWSL and positioning Colorado as a rising hub for elite women’s soccer talent.