"This city means so much to me. I love playing here more than anything." - Olivia Moultrie
Today, the Portland Thorns announced that Olivia Moultrie has signed a three-year contract extension through 2029.
Coming off a career-season where she has led the team in scoring with eight goals, Moultrie was also just named Rose City Riveters Supporters Player of the Year. The midfielder has put on a show for club and country with her dazzling play, and now the show will continue.
“Portland isn’t just where I play, it’s home,” Moultrie said. “The community, fans, energy at Providence Park, it’s all part of who I am now. To be able to keep representing this city means everything. From day one, this organization has believed in me and supported my development in ways I’ll always be grateful for. I grew up in this league wearing Thorns colors and that’s shaped me and my expectations. Top to bottom, this organization expects greatness and that’s exactly where I want to be.”
“Every time I step on the field at Providence Park, I feel the energy of this city and these fans, there’s nothing like it,” Moultrie added. “I want to pay back the loyalty that this community has shown me with as many wins and trophies as possible. This is where I became who I am, and getting to keep writing my story here is something really special. The Thorns have an impressive history and winning in our DNA. I want to live that as well as add to its legacy.”
With her contract set to expire in 2026 with the Portland Thorns, Jeff Agoos and the front office made it a priority to bring back their star.
"We are thrilled to extend Olivia as a Thorn for the foreseeable future” said President and General Manager of Soccer Operations Jeff Agoos. “We have seen her playing arc see tremendous growth over the course of her development in Portland. Her on-field capabilities, her sheer competitiveness, and the maturity off the pitch has established her as one of our nation’s brightest young stars. We are proud of her commitment to remain in an environment that will continue to shape her into a world class player and compete for championships each year. She has worked hard to become a leader on this team, and we are happy that Portland will be her home."
Agoos has continued to set the club's future in motion by giving massive extensions to Reyna Reyes, Jayden "JP" Perry, Reilyn Turner, and M.A. Vignola all this year.
In 2021, Liv Moultrie shattered the glass ceiling at just 15 years old and opened the door for other young players. Today, at 20 years old, she has become one of the best young midfielders in the world.
After Christine Sinclair's retirement, the 'torch' was passed onto the young phenom and she has delivered time and time again.
How elite has she been? Moultrie is number one in shot-creating actions, and top 10 in progressive carries, shots, xA (expected assists), and so many key metrics. However, what is most impressive is how she has transitioned to being a voice and leader for young players, like Laila Harbert and Valerin Loboa.
This is a move the club had to make and it's one that will continue to pay dividends moving forward, as the midfielder is only scratching the surface of her sky-high potential.
The Portland Thorns and Olivia Moultrie return this Sunday, November 9 at noon to host the San Diego Wave in the first round of the NWSL Playoffs.
Moultrie and Agoos will also have a press conference, later today.
