The Late Sub with Claire Watkins

The NWSL Shield race looks like it’s down to two teams, Gotham and the Washington Spirit. While they are both battling at the top of the table, Claire takes this week to look at some of their differences and how two teams so similar couldn’t be MORE different. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:57 Washing & Gotham Leading Shield Contenders 04:57 The Case for Washington Spirit 13:42 The Case for Gotham FC 18:02 Outstanding Asset 22:48 No Love for Ballon d’Or Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Claire breaks down everything USWNT fans need to know as the WSL looks to kick off. Some of the world’s best stars have made their way to England! Here’s everything you need to know to become a WSL fan ahead of the World Cup. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:59 A Guide to the WSL 08:40 USWNT Stars in the WSL 14:14 NWSL Money Moves 17:09 London City Lionesses 19:21 Names to Know Before the World Cup Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Ashley Sanchez is having an NWSL season to remember. After falling out of the USWNT, Sanchez is making a case that she can't be ignored. Claire takes this week to put the spotlight on Sanchez and why Emma Hayes should call her up for the next camp. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:42 Ashley Sanchez’s MONSTER Season 06:57 The Sanchez Story 09:31 Why Can’t She Make the Emma Hayes Roster? 11:30 Complete Courage Overhaul 14:52 Her Case for the USWNT 21:14 The WILD MVP Race Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Claire takes this week takes the time to do a deep dive into the troubles in Louisville. Racing has a fan attendance problem, but is ownership making fans the scape goat for their errors? Bev Yanez has the team on a 4 game winning streak, is there still time to right the ship? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:43 Going Deep on Louisville 04:44 What’s going Right in Louisville 08:13 Changing their Shape 11:18 Outstanding Asset 15:01 Now What’s Wrong for Racing 20:20 Relocation on the Horizon? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Claire takes this week to zoom out on the NWSL and see how five teams are trending. With Olivia Moultrie out for the season, an already struggling Portland Thorns team could be on a skid. Washington is feeling the burn out from a packed schedule. Seattle is looking like the Reign of old, and Gotham sits atop the table with the league’s best defense. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:39 Portland Fading FAST 06:34 Spend & Save 10:18 Washington Spirit Fall Short 14:27 Is Seattle Making a Run? 21:15 Gotham’s Defense Has them at the TOP of the Table Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Claire digs into all the action at W AFCON. With a stacked group C and a tournament filled with some of the BEST NWSL talent, could one of these nations be the surprise of next year’s World Cup? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 05:38 Best Players in the World? 09:10 STACKED Group C 15:35 Closing in on the Semis 20:13 Goal of the Tournament Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

With Emily Sonnett down with an undisclosed knee injury, Claire takes this moment to dive into the injury window. How can Gotham keep up with a back line that's looking thinner by the moment? What other teams are plagued by injury? And most importantly, what World Cup implications do injuries have from here on out? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:49 NWSL Injuries & International Implications 06:52 Emily Sonnett Stretchered Off 11:09 Esther Leaves Gotham 15:10 San Diego Injuries 18:54 Poor Chicago 22:31 Angel City Wonky Roster Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Ali Riley joins a special edition of the Late Sub to help Claire break down the biggest questions for the USWNT roster as we look WAAAAAAAAAAAY too far ahead to make some BOLD statements the potential World Cup roster. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Ali Riley Joins the Show 02:34 Initial Roster Thoughts 08:18 Forwards 22:17 Midfielders 29:19 Defenders 35:16 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

This week, Claire breaks down some of the biggest moves by Michelle Kang and she builds out her soccer empire across women’s soccer. Kang’s most recent signings are bringing the London City Lionesses looking like a European powerhouse, and Kang has shown her commitment to NWSL by making the same hard stances for the Washington Spirit, particularly resigning Trinity Rodman. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Alexia Putellas Signs with London City 06:00 Why Players Aren’t Going to the NWSL 10:52 Kang’s Soccer Empire 15:42 Building a Superteam 21:12 Should NWSL Fans Worry? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

This week Claire digs into the teams sitting at the top of the NWSL table as the shield race heats up. Trinity Rodman is better than ever as Washington Spirit ride a win streak. Sophia Smith and Portland are cruising. KC is always in the mix with Temwa Chawinga. And how much can we make of Utah’s loss to Chicago. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:59 Trinity Rodman’s Stoppage Time WINNER 07:31 San Diego Still Leading the Table 14:02 Portland Thorns are CRUISING 17:59 Kansas City Lurking 22:50 Utah’s Wacky Loss Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

This week Claire gets into all the biggest questions as the NWSL comes back from a very long break. How quickly can Sam Kerr make an impact with Gotham? Can Lindsey Heaps get Denver Summit into the playoff picture? Is MVP Barbara Banda’s to LOSE? Can Utah continue their dream run? And what does anyone make of Angel City after all their changes? Plus could there be a HUGE sleeper in the NWSL MVP conversation? You won’t believe it! This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:04 Is Sam Kerr the Missing Piece for Gotham? 04:58 Gotham’s Vice Grip on Defense 11:09 Can Lindsey Heaps Get Denver into the Playoffs 12:36 Outstanding Asset: Lindsey Heaps 16:22 Is Utah’s Dream Run Sustainable 20:14 Is MVP Barbara Banda’s to Lose? 24:33 Can Angel City Turn it Around? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

This week Claire digs into all the NWSL transfer window CHAOS, and grades each move! Sam Kerr reportedly ready to sign with Gotham, Kennedy Fuller to Bay, Ally Sentnor to Angel City, and ACFC Head Coach Alex Straus is OUT. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:49 Sam Kerr to Gotham 03:51 How Does Kerr Fit? 09:37 Money Moves and Grading the Kerr Signing 13:20 Grading Reale to Boston 16:43 Angel City’s BIG Week 17:22 Grading Fuller to Bay 18:57 Straus Fired 20:41 Grading Sentnor to ACFC 23:10 KC Extend Chawinga Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

After a few illuminating USWNT matches against Brazil, Claire takes her first stab at predicting the USWNT 2027 World Cup roster.The one questions that looms large, can Catarina Macario get healthy in time to snag a spot on the forward?This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC.Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLSChapters00:00 Introduction01:30 Predicting the World Cup Roster04:47 The Keepers08:42 Center Backs11:20 Outside Backs15:25 Midfielders20:17 Forwards Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Claire breaks down the aftermath of a CHAOTIC couple of friendlies between the USWNT and Brazil. Games that saw more cards than a round of poker. Plus we’ll take a look at the roster and what these games tell us about who’s ready for the World Cup in 2027. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLS Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:49 Tense Atmosphere 3:10 8 Red Cards for Brazil 3:51 4 Referee Controversy 07:26 Brazil Player PHYSICAL 09:41 USWNT Game 2 Plan 12:22 USWNT Handled the Pressure 13:24 Sophia Wilson Not Missing a BEAT 17:26 Smart Play: Michelle Cooper 21:25 Cooper Got Away with a Card… 23:29 Convoluted Midfield 29:29 Looking Ahead

As the NWSL heads into the June break, Claire takes a look at some of the biggest surprises around the league. Utah is looking legit, Gotham’s low margin soccer keeps the Bats winning, Houston & Angel City are in free fall. Plus we take a look at the rookie landscape and frontrunners for this season’s MVP are some familiar names. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLS Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:09 2nd Place Utah Royals 09:41 Gotham Not Giving Up Goals 12:57 Portland’s Surprising Defense 15:45 Rookie of the Year Watch 20:40 MVP Watch Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Emma Hayes dropped a fresh USWNT roster ahead of the team’s friendlies against Brazil. Claire breaks down every position, including some surprises and snubs. Plus why can’t Ashley Sanchez earn a call up despite an MVP caliber NWSL season? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:30 USWNT Injured Players 04:13 Triple Espresso is BACK 06:55 Forwards 08:21 Midfielders 10:25 Midfield Surprises 11:14 Spend & Save: Riley Jackson 14:59 Snub: Ashley Sanchez? 20:21 Center Backs 22:48 Outside Backs 24:21 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

This week Claire takes a deep dive into the return of Chicago’s Mallory Swanson. The evolution of her game, how much does being on a struggling Chicago team impact her chances for the USWNT roster, and what’s Chicago’s SMART PLAY for getting her back to full form? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:46 Returning from Pregnancy 04:29 The Evolution of Mal Swanson 06:43 Differences Between Mal & Sophia 08:26 USWNT Players on BAD Teams 11:26 Will Chicago Hurt Mal’s USWNT Chances 17:37 Chicago’s SMART PLAY 20:14 Will Swanson Get Called Up for June Friendlies? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Claire breaks down Emma Hayes's tour across the NWSL. Who she saw exceed expectations, who shrunk under the spotlight, and who she didn't bother to see at all. With an eye toward 2027, Emma Hayes has her sights on the USWNT pool of NWSL talent. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:38 Who Did Emma Hayes Watch? 04:55 Who Emma SKIPPED 07:13 Beyond 2027 10:20 Who IMPRESSED 15:47 Who DISAPPOINTED 19:01 Emma Hayes Spend & Save Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Claire breaks down the NWSL MVP race with Orlando's Barbra Banda leading the way. If the race ended today, she's taking it. A WILD golden boot race with Ashley Sanchez, Olivia Moultrie keeping Portland at the top of the table, and Rose Lavelle Leading Gotham. Plus NWSL Rookie of the Year watch! This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:14 Barbra Banda 06:05 Olivia Moultrie 07:58 Rose Lavelle 09:52 Ashley Sanchez 12:25 Trinity Rodmans 12:47 Dudinha 14:16 Taylor Flint 18:29 Rookie of the Year Watch Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

In this week's episode of The Late Sub Claire breaks down the difficulties of being an expansion team, how Summit is headed in the right direction and why Lindsey Heaps can get them over the hump. Plus Columbus's $205 Million NWSL expansion team. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC Claire dives into the evolution of Trinity Rodman's game, and the growing pains that come along with it. The million dollar question is will she find her form for the USWNT and Spirit sooner than later? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

Two of the biggest surprises this season have been Gotham & Houston. One has shocked the NWSL by soaring up the table, while the bats are underperforming as reigning champs. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down every position group in the USWNT roster release for their 3 game friendly matchup against Japan. Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson make their returns. Can Olivia Moultrie take her success with the Thorns to the National Team in a crowded midfield. Plus finding depth at outside back. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twitter/X (@scoutripley) and sign up for the Just Women’s Sports newsletter at justwomenssports.com/newsletter/ Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:40 Forwards 09:11 Midfielders 14:38 Center Backs 17:35 Outside Backs 20:27 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down three of the NWSL weekend’s trends as the chaos begins in earnest, including red cards galore, talent evaluation, and Angel City’s deepest roster yet.

In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down the big picture of Catarina Macario’s impending debut in the NWSL, in the context of last years USWNT exodus turning into a more balanced season upon which a lot of US decisions will be made about the rising stars of the NWSL.

The NWSL season has arrived and we've got everything you need to know on this week’s episode of The Late Sub. Who’s improved, what can fans expect on the field, and who's ultimately competing for a title in 2026.

In this week's episode, Claire takes a look at the USWNT's first two SheBelieves Cup games, crediting the team's control, ability to turn the field, and roster integration, while still asking a few questions about attacking setup and best personnel in key areas.

In this week’s episode, Claire checks in on how USWNT players have been faring in Europe, as they prepare to rejoin the U.S. prior to this weekend’s SheBelieves Cup. She talks instant success, and the few question marks that still exist as the USWNT’s club balance leans more European than ever.

In today’s episode, Claire takes a deeper look at the upcoming USWNT SheBelieves Cup roster: who's in, who's out, with notes from Emma Hayes’s press conference following the squad announcement.

In this week’s episode, Claire breaks downs the ins and outs of NWSL media day, the return of Triple Espresso, some key injury updates, and some interesting notes from chatting with the NWSL’s best and brightest prior to preseason kicking off.

In today's episode, Claire reflects on the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup: what Arsenal's victory means, some of the logistical hiccups shaping the tournament, and how FIFA can use the first iteration of the competition to improve international club competitions — but only if they're invested in the product.

In this week's episode, Claire takes a big picture look at the USWNT's January camp in its entirety after two dominant wins against Paraguay and Chile - the winners, the lost opportunities, what she thinks will actually be carried by the team into the future and what might just be a showcase of what US soccer can show fans right now.

In today's episode, Claire gives her immediate takeaways from the USWNT's 6-0 win over Paraguay. New leadership structures, a wealth of versatility, and a few exciting debuts and returns to set the tone for the team's World Cup qualifying year.

In this week’s episode, Claire digs into the USWNT’s January camp roster, pointing out one player from each positional line that she’d like to see get serious time on the pitch in the team’s two upcoming friendlies. She talks roster health, positional fits, and the key element of timing as players establish themselves as consistent options at the international level.

We're back! In this week’s episode, Claire ranks her favorite offseason NWSL transactions: the good, the pretty good, and the headscratchers. She talks transfers into the league, a rumored big departure, and what projects are coming together faster than others.

We're closing out 2025 with a bang! In this week’s episode, Claire makes a few predictions for 2026, chatting about transfer possibilities, World Cup qualifying, way too early MVP candidates in more. Thanks everyone for listening through a great year of soccer, we’ll see y’all in January.

In this week’s episode, Claire runs down the timeline that’s led to Trinity Rodman’s contract dispute with the NWSL, where the league is falling short and the pressure the ongoing saga places on one of the most exciting talents in the game.

Subscribe: https://pod.link/1563105123 In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down the USWNT friendlies against Italy. Claire shares her biggest takeaways heading into 2026, from what these lineups told us about the midfield, what its means to have Naomi Girma back, and what opponents shouldn't do against his team. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twitter/X (@scoutripley) and sign up for the Just Women’s Sports newsletter at justwomenssports.com/newsletter/ Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Listen to The Late Sub with Claire Watkins here: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-late-sub-with-claire-watkins/id1563105123 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4n4ZxsVs1Ix9DY9E0KPSc6 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-the-late-sub-with-claire-81239737/ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c457a882-c376-4e46-8380-d7471ed29d4c/the-late-sub-with-claire-watkins Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down NWSL championship weekend, on getting a sense of both Washington and Gotham’s dynamics going into Saturdays game, and how the Bats put themselves in a position to strike for a second championship in three years. Then, she does a quick breakdown of this week’s USWNT roster, as the team prepares to close out the year against Italy.

In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down last weekend’s semifinal action, and previews a championship game between two of the more ambitious clubs in the entire NWSL. Then, she chats with Bay FC defender Abby Dahlkemper, about Sutter Heath and the club’s support for family planning as she plans for a very exciting 2026.

In this week’s episode, Claire breaks down what she got right and what she got very wrong about the NWSL quarterfinals, which team has the biggest chip on their shoulder, and what may or may not happen when the semifinals hit this weekend.

In this week’s episode, Claire roots for chaos as the NWSL postseason begins by making four bold predictions about the upcoming quarterfinal round. Which underdogs can take it to the full 90, what tactics are most likely to prevail, and yes a bracket buster or two.

On this week’s episode, Claire breaks down the second two matches in the USWNT’s October window: who stood out, what question marks remain, and what the U.S. can take out of three very different performances over the course of the week from both a coaching and a player pool level.

In today's episode, Claire goes long on the USWNT opening the October window with their first-ever loss to Portugal: why the team's setup didn't help players succeed, what went wrong as the US chased the game, and how the team can adjust going into a rematch on Sunday.

*Note: This episode was recorded before Trinity Rodman left Wednesday's game with an injury* This week, Claire breaks down the roster for the USWNT’s upcoming October friendlies. Who made it, who is still on the outside looking in, and Emma Hayes’s comments as the team nears the year-mark until next fall’s World Cup Qualifying tournament.

In today’s episode, Claire breaks down the first week of 2025/26 UWCL action, as the USWNT contingent in the competition grows in size every year. She chats about the level of importance USWNT manager Emma Hayes places on the tournament, and how USWNT players are fairing in the early going of the league phase.

This week, Claire reflects on the retirement of Angel City captain Ali Riley, amidst a larger generational shift in the NWSL that has seen giants of the game step away while young stars rise. How has the league’s new CBA impacted the overall storytelling as the league creates new stars, and has the NWSL taken advantage of a quiet year for the USWNT?

In this week’s episode, Claire reflects on this week’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, breaking down the issues with modern football awards that can leave the women’s game looking like an afterthought, especially for players neither from or playing in Europe.

In this week’s episode, Claire reflects on the news Jaedyn Shaw is making a record NWSL transfer to Gotham FC, breaking down how million dollar trades work within a salary cap system that nonetheless keeps salaries restricted. She chats transfer growth, salaries vs transfer fees, and why certain players earning big ticket salaries doesn’t end the concerns risen by the high profile transfer of Alyssa Thompson to Chelsea.