Orlando Pride signs rising star Kat Asman to boost defense for 2024 season | OneFootball

While Orlando Pride does a couple of key moves that might help the club be at an even competitive edge, its newest addition could be all that has been needed. The Club officially announced that goalkeeper Kat Asman had signed with the Pride on a two-year deal through the end of 2026. Moving to Orlando not only secures Asman a place within the Pride's goalkeeper unit but also adds freshness to a roster chomping at the bit to stake a serious claim for a top-four finish this coming season.

Kat Asman's signing was celebrated internally, as Vice President of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director Haley Carter pointed out the impact a goalkeeper like Kat will bring into the team.

"Kat is a phenomenal addition to our pool of goalkeepers and someone we expect will bring competition and push this group to be even better than they've been. We're very excited about what she adds to the team on and off the field, and we're confident she'll play a key role in our upcoming season."

Orlando Pride are not only looking to continue at this level but also to improve on it. Asman's arrival creates an atmosphere that means individual improvement equates to team success.

On her part, Kat Asman didn't hold her excitement about the Pride's ambitious project. In her first remarks as a player for the club, she made clear that the culture of the team was a key factor in her decision.

"A big reason I felt so drawn to join the Pride is their commitment to building a connected team culture that thrives on relationships off the field to produce results on the field. Last season, I watched Orlando have an unforgettable year, and I feel so blessed to be part of everything this team will continue to build in the future."

The trajectory of Asman

At 23, Kat Asman brings with her a career that has seen immense talent, consistency, and progressive development. Drafted in the third round of the 2024 NWSL Draft by Portland Thorns, this keeper is still in her embryonic days of her career but already boasts of a stellar collegiate background to her name.

At Penn State University, Asman was a four-year mainstay for the Nittany Lions. Her numbers are impressive: 323 saves across 87 matches and 27 career shutouts. Beyond her technical skills, she stood out for her leadership and resilience, becoming just the fourth player in Penn State history to win more than 50 matches in the NCAA.

These achievements underscore not only Asman’s technical capabilities but also her strong mentality, qualities that the Orlando Pride undoubtedly values. Her robust collegiate experience has prepared her for high-pressure games, making her an ideal addition to a team with championship ambitions.

While the Orlando Pride had a great season in the NWSL, the club knows the top requires strategic reinforcements and a winning mentality. The signing of Kat Asman is another step in that direction. By bringing in a young, talented goalkeeper with a solid collegiate background, the club shows both strategic vision and a commitment to excellence.