West Wake News

The North Carolina Courage have signed forward Heather MacNab to a short-term contract. MacNab, a Princeton graduate, participated in the preseason with the team as a non-roster invitee. The current roster includes 24 active players, with two on injured reserve and one on the season-ending injury list.

During her time at Princeton, MacNab played 72 games and made 50 starts over four years. She accumulated 3,972 minutes from 2021 through 2024, scoring 13 goals and providing 24 assists. She also took 40 shots on goal and successfully converted all four of her penalty attempts.

Reflecting on her experience so far, MacNab stated: “My time here so far has been the most rewarding experience of my life. The North Carolina Courage demands the highest standard of excellence every day, and the team and the staff’s dedication to maintaining that standard is unbelievable. This is the best and most intense training environment a player could be a part of, and I am privileged to continue developing here alongside an incredible group of women and some of the best players in the game."

She added: “To be able to sign my first professional contract and represent one of the most storied clubs in the NWSL is a dream come true. I am so honored and excited to begin my professional career in Courage Country. I am incredibly grateful to the club for fostering an environment where I am challenged to grow as a player and person daily. I’m excited to continue working and contributing to the team in every way I can.”

MacNab hails from Indianapolis and was recognized as a second-team United Soccer Coaches all-region selection during her senior year in 2024. She also earned second-team All-ECAC honors and first-team All-Ivy recognition, along with an honorable mention All-Ivy accolade as a sophomore in 2022.

The Courage recently secured a road draw in their season opener last weekend. They are scheduled for their home debut this Saturday, March 22, against Seattle Reign FC at First Horizon Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m. ET. Following this match, Jessica McDonald will be inducted as the second member of the Ring of Honor.