The Houston Dash announced on Tuesday morning that they have signed defender Avery Patterson to a contract extension through the 2028 season.
“Avery (Patterson’s) journey with the Dash has been defined by her competitive spirit, resiliency and unrelenting quest to improve every aspect of her game,” said President of Women’s Soccer Angela Hucles Mangano in a statement. “This extension reflects the progress she has made since joining the club and our belief in who she can become as she continues her career
here in Houston. She has embraced our environment, thrived within it, and continues to grow both as a player and as a leader for our club.”
The USWNT player was a bright spot on an otherwise inconsistent season for the Dash in 2025 which saw them end the NWSL season out of the playoff picture in 10th place.
Patterson has played as a winger, midfielder and fullback throughout her career, but had a breakout season in 2025 as right back for the Dash. She earned a nomination for the NWSL defender of the year award, and was named to the NWSL Best XI first team.
Patterson is currently away from the Houston Dash, instead featuring for the United States Women’s National Team in the SheBelieves Cup. Patterson was originally on the USWNT roster for their January camp, but left early due to illness, and was now called back to the squad as an injury replacement for Kate Wiesner.
“I’m excited and proud to extend my time here in Houston. My last two years with this club have been equally challenging and rewarding, and I firmly believe that the success at the end of 2025 was just the beginning,” Patterson said in a statement. “I’m committed to not only developing individually, but also supporting my teammates to fight for the results that this club expects and deserves. The city of Houston and its people have become my home and my community. With this contract extension, I’m happy to continue to call it home.”
The 23-year-old defender was selected by the Houston Dash in the 2024 NWSL draft after three full seasons with the North Carolina Tar Heels. Patterson was the captain of the Tar Heels in her senior season in 2023, and helped the squad reach the 2022 NCAA College Cup final, but ultimately fell short to UCLA in a thrilling overtime match.
The Houston Dash play their first game of the 2026 NWSL season on Saturday, March 14 against San Diego Wave FC.
