NWSL: North Carolina Courage Ink Defender Ivy Younce to Short-Term Deal

Staff Writer
2 hours ago
2 min read

NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com

CARY, N.C. — The North Carolina Courage have officially bolstered their defensive depth ahead of the 2026 NWSL regular season, announcing the signing of defender Ivy Younce to a short-term contract. The move comes as the Courage look to solidify their backline following a series of minor knocks to key personnel during the final stages of the preseason.

Younce, a standout performer during the club’s open tryouts and subsequent preseason camp, has impressed the technical staff with her versatility and physical presence. A former collegiate star at the University of Portland, Younce brings a high tactical IQ to a North Carolina system that emphasizes playing out from the back and maintaining a disciplined defensive shape.

"Ivy has come into our environment and earned this opportunity through hard work and a clear understanding of our game model," Courage head coach Sean Nahas said. "In this league, you can never have enough quality depth in the defensive third. She provides us with a reliable option who can step in across multiple positions if called upon."

The signing follows a trend for the Courage, who have historically utilized short-term contracts to evaluate emerging talent before the roster freeze. By bringing Younce into the fold, North Carolina gains flexibility as they navigate a dense early-season schedule that includes both league play and the opening rounds of the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup.

Younce’s arrival is particularly timely given the international call-ups expected later this spring. With several Courage defenders slated to join their respective national teams, having a player familiar with the club’s defensive rotations will be critical for maintaining consistency. The Portland alumna is expected to be available for selection immediately as the team prepares for their home opener at WakeMed Soccer Park.

The Courage defense was among the league's elite last season, and the addition of Younce is seen as a move to protect that standard. The club’s "Next Player Up" mentality has been a hallmark of their success, allowing them to remain competitive even during periods of heavy squad rotation or injury.

As an independent signing, Younce represents the growing pathway for undrafted collegiate players to break into the professional ranks. After a successful stint in the USL W League last summer, her transition to the NWSL highlights the increasing level of talent available in the domestic player pool outside of the traditional draft system.

Financial terms of the short-term deal were not disclosed, per league and club policy. However, the contract includes the potential for an extension or a full-season roster spot based on performance and squad needs over the coming weeks.

Fans will likely get their first look at Younce in a Courage kit this weekend. As North Carolina looks to reclaim their spot at the top of the NWSL standings, every roster move is being scrutinized as part of a larger plan to bring another championship trophy back to Cary.