FC Kansas City made two moves this week by resigning defender Leigh Ann Robinson while adding Australian midfielder Katrina Gorry.
The new deal will keep Robinson in Kansas City through the 2015 NWSL season the team announced Thursday.
“I’m very excited to be locking myself into Kansas City for another year,” Robinson said. “I feel like this offseason we have strengthened our team even more and we are in a position for success. I’m really looking forward to starting the preseason next week.”
Starting in all 22 games a year ago, the versatile defender was a key part of Kansas City’s second-ranked defense.
Her outstanding play led to her first senior national team call up in August, where she made an appearance in a friendly against Mexico.
“Leigh Ann was a very important player for us last year as she proved herself to be one of the best backs in the league,” Huw Williams, Kansas City technical director said. “Her play and leadership qualities make her a player that we want to be part of FC Kansas City for a long time.
The 27-year-old has previously played for Atlanta Beat, FC Gold Pride, and the Philadelphia Independence in the WPS.
As for the other addition, Gorry will join Kansas City’s roster in June after the completion of Australia’s World Cup Qualifying matches.
The 21-year-old played last season for the Brisbane Roar in Australia’s Westfield W-League.
The Brisbane native, made her senior debut for Australia in 2012. A noted playmaker Gorry is expect to be a crucial part of Australia’s run in the upcoming 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“When we asked our players who they want on the team, Katrina’s name came up several times,” Williams said. “That speaks volumes for her and, frankly, confirmed our thoughts that she could be a great fit for our team.”
Gorry has scored six goals in 27 appearances over her W-League career.
“I’m very excited about my signing with FC Kansas City,” Gorry said. “It will be an amazing experience mixing with and playing alongside some of the best players in the world. I’ve heard so many good things about the club and players so I’m really looking forward to getting over there.”
Gorry previously played for Austrian clubs Melbourne Victory, Adelaide United and Ottawa Fury FC in the USL W-League. Gorry signing marks the first international signing in FC Kansas City history.
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