Defenders Malia Berkely and Natalie Jacobs will swap clubs, with Berkely headed to the Houston Dash and Jacobs joining the North Carolina Courage, the two clubs announced on Friday.
As part of the trade, the Dash will also recieve $75,000 in 2026 intra-league transfer funds.
28-year-old Berkely has been an impactful player with the Courage and helped the team win two Challenge Cups. She has 69 appearances for the Courage and has been part of the NWSL’s monthly Best XI three times.
“Malia brings valuable
postseason experience to our group and her ability to read the game, distribute under pressure and lead defensively makes her a strong addition to our roster,” said President of Soccer, Angela Hucles Mangano.
“We’re excited to welcome her to Houston and know she’ll play an important role as we look toward the final stretch of the season and beyond,” said Hucles Mangano.
“We’re so grateful for everything Malia has given our club. Over the last four years, she has been a true professional, a great teammate, and a proud representative of our crest in this community. She will be missed, and we wish her nothing but the best in her next chapter,” said Courage Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Ceri Bowley.
Jacobs, who is also a center back, is now under contract with the Courage through the 2028 season. She previously played with Real Betis and the Washington Spirit. She has 64 appearances with the Dash and helped them to a playoff appearance in 2022.
“I am super excited to be a part of the Courage. I have always admired this club and the success that they have had. I cannot wait to help this club to more success in the future. Thank you to everyone for welcoming me to Courage Country with open arms,” Jacobs said.
“This is an important moment for our club, adding an experienced player who has proven herself among the best defenders in the league. Natalie is as tough as they come, both mentally and physically, and her leadership will be invaluable. She’s the kind of player you can build around, and we’re delighted to welcome her to Courage Country,” said Bowley.
“I want to thank Natalie for all she did for our club on and off the field. She is a consummate professional and we wish her the very best in this next chapter of her career,” said Hucles Mangano.
Jacobs will be available for selection in the Courage’s home match against Angel City this Saturday.
While the international transfer window is now closed, intra-league transfers and loans are still allowed until the roster freeze on October 9.
The Dash are currently ninth in standings, one spot away from making the playoff, while the Courage are in eleventh.
The Courage will next face Angel City FC on Saturday, and the Dash will play their next game on Sunday against the Utah Royals.
