Kaleigh Kurtz has signed with Denver Summit FC for their first season, leaving North Carolina Courage after four years. She brings strong experience and leadership to the new team.
On October 4, 2025, Kaleigh Kurtz, a well-known defender in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), officially joined Denver Summit FC. She signed a contract that will keep her with the team until 2028. Kurtz has been a key player for the North Carolina Courage, where she played for four seasons.
Kurtz has played every minute of the last 114 games since June 26, 2021, totaling over 10,000 minutes on the field. Recently, she set a record for the most consecutive starts in the NWSL with 107. She is also recognized for having four seasons without missing a game, earning her the title of the league's "iron woman."
During her time with the Courage, Kurtz helped the team win the NWSL trophy and shield twice, in 2018 and 2019. She also contributed to their Challenge Cup victories in 2022 and 2023. Her talent has earned her spots on the NWSL Best IX teams in 2023 and 2024.
Denver Summit FC's general manager, Curt Johnson, praised Kurtz's skills and leadership, calling her a game-changer for the team. Kurtz expressed her enthusiasm about joining the new club, highlighting their vision and commitment to success. She looks forward to helping build a strong team culture and competing at a high level.
Before her NWSL career, Kurtz played for Östersunds DFF in Sweden and spent a season on loan with Canberra United, where she was named Player of the Year in 2019. She also played college soccer at the University of Richmond and later at the University of South Carolina, where she was recognized as the SEC Defender of the Year in 2016.
