Washington Spirit Sign Forward Laura Del Rio

The Washington Spirit has signed forward Laura Del Rio, pending the receipt of her International Transfer Certificate (ITC). Del Rio, who is a Spanish citizen, holds a green card and therefore will not take up an international roster spot. She is expected to start training with the Spirit on Friday, March 13. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“It’s a pleasure sign with a team like Washington Spirit,” said Del Rio in a news released issued by the club. “I’m so excited to be back playing in an American league. I’m looking forward to meeting the team, the fans and the city.”

The skillful forward began her career in Spain playing with AD Torrejón (1999-00), Levante UD (2000-02, 2004-08) and CD Sabadell (2002-04). In 2008, Del Rio left Levante to play abroad for the first time in the W-League for FC Indiana, scoring 33 goals in two years.

“I am very excited to welcome Laura to Washington D.C. and can’t wait for her to join us this week,” said Spirit general manager and head coach Mark Parsons in a news release. “Laura is a dynamic forward who has the ability to make us very dangerous in the final third.”

In 2009, Del Rio signed for 1. FFC Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga. She played in 10 matches before returning to the U.S. to play for the Boston Breakers in Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) and later for the Philadelphia Independence. Most recently, the striker played for Bristol Academy in England. Through two seasons, she scored 14 goals in 47 appearances.

Internationally, Del Rio earned 39 international appearances and tallied 40 goals for Spain.

The Washington Spirit will begin its 2015 season on the road facing the Houston Dash at BBVA Compass Stadium on Friday, April 10. The Spirit will make its home debut against FC Kansas City at Maureen Hendricks Field the following weekend on Saturday, April 18 at 7 p.m.

Washington Spirit season tickets are available now (10 home matches), with packages starting as low as $170. Check out all of the phenomenal NWSL soccer at the Maryland SoccerPlex by calling 301.337.8579.

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