After multiple reports last week
, today, Bay FC have officially announced that they have acquired Jenna Nighswonger from Arsenal WFC for an undisclosed transfer fee.The former 2023 Rookie of the Year and NWSL Champion , and 2024 Olympic Gold Medalist will be returning to NWSL on a contract through 2028.
“Jenna is another great addition to our squad, showing real quality both sides of the ball,” said Head Coach Emma Coates. “Her experience in the NWSL & WSL will add another dimension to our group.
I believe she has the character and football intelligence to make a strong impact here and I’m excited to work with her day to day supporting this next chapter in her career.”
“I’m really excited to return to the NWSL and begin this next chapter with Bay FC,” said Nighswonger. “I have a lot of confidence in what this group can accomplish moving forward, and I’m ready to get to work and help the team compete.”
The defender was drafted fourth overall in the 2023 NWSL Draft and appeared in 46 regular season matches for Gotham FC before moving to WSL powerhouse, Arsenal in January 2025. She made five appearances before heading out on loan to Aston Villa, quickly becoming a starter for Natalia Arroyo.
Internationally, she has earned 20 appearances with the USWNT which includes being part of the 2024 Olympic Champion squad.
