11
She’s Back: Ashley Hatch Returns to Spirit from Maternity Leave
Washington Spirit Star Ashley Hatch Returns to the Field After Maternity Leave
The Big News: A Fan Favorite Is Back!
Washington, D.C. (August 7, 2026) – Exciting news for soccer fans! The Washington Spirit has officially welcomed back Ashley Hatch to the active roster. After taking time off to welcome her baby son Leo earlier this year, Hatch is ready to play again. She’ll be available for the team’s very next match this weekend!
Important Point: This makes Hatch the second Spirit player this season to return from maternity leave. Her teammate Andi Sullivan came back in March after having her daughter Millie last summer.
Who Is Ashley Hatch? (And Why Is She a Big Deal?)
If you’re new to the Spirit or the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), here’s why everyone is cheering for Hatch’s return:
- Goal-Scoring Machine: She has scored 59 goals in her regular-season career. That’s the 5th most in NWSL history!
- Spirit Legend: Of those 59 goals, 52 came while playing for the Spirit—making her the club’s all-time leading scorer.
- Championship Hero: In 2021, she won the Golden Boot (award for the league’s top scorer) AND helped the Spirit win their first-ever NWSL Championship.
- Consistent Excellence: She’s been named to the NWSL Best XI (the league’s all-star team) twice—First Team in 2021, Second Team in 2023.
ELI5 Explanation: Think of the Golden Boot like the "Top Scorer Trophy" in a video game. The Best XI is like being picked for the "All-Star Team" of the whole league. Doing both in the same year? That’s superstar status.
What Happens Next? The Upcoming Match
The Spirit’s next game is shaping up to be a special one. Here are the details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opponent | North Carolina Courage |
| Date | Saturday, August 8, 2026 |
| Time | 6:30 p.m. EDT |
| Location | Audi Field (Buzzard Point, Washington, D.C.) |
| Theme | Spirit Worldwide: Culture Night |
| Tickets | Available at WashingtonSpirit.com/tickets |
3 Reasons to Be Excited for This Game:
- Hatch’s Return Debut – Watch her take the field for the first time since May 2025.
- Culture Night Theme – A celebration of global cultures with music, food, and fun.
- Big Rivalry – The Courage are always a tough, exciting opponent.
A Quick Look at the Washington Spirit
New to the team? Here’s the lowdown:
- Founded: November 21, 2012
- League: National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) — the fastest-growing sports league in the U.S.
- Home Stadium: Audi Field in Buzzard Point, D.C.
- Fun Fact: The Spirit is an inaugural member of the NWSL (they’ve been there since Day 1!).
- Star Power: Home to world-class players who’ve won championships for both club and country.
Follow the Spirit:
• Website: WashingtonSpirit.com
• Social: X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook
Summary: Why This Matters
- Ashley Hatch is back after maternity leave—her son Leo was born earlier in 2026.
- She’s a club legend: all-time leading scorer, Golden Boot winner, championship hero.
- She’s the 2nd Spirit mom to return this season (after Andi Sullivan), showing the league’s growing support for player moms.
- Next game: August 8 vs. North Carolina Courage at Audi Field, 6:30 PM, Culture Night theme.
- Tickets are on sale now—great chance to see a superstar’s return live!
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
1. How long was Ashley Hatch away from the team?
She has been on maternity leave since May 2025—so just over a year. She welcomed her son Leo earlier in 2026.
2. What is the NWSL Golden Boot?
It’s the award given to the player who scores the most goals in the regular season. Hatch won it in 2021.
3. Is it common for players to return after having a baby?
It’s becoming more common! The NWSL and teams like the Spirit have improved maternity policies and support, making it easier for players like Hatch and Sullivan to come back.
4. Can I still get tickets for Saturday’s game?
Yes! Tickets are available at WashingtonSpirit.com/tickets. Since it’s Culture Night and Hatch’s return, they might go fast.
5. Where can I watch if I can’t go to the game?
Check the Spirit’s website or social media for broadcast/streaming info. NWSL games are often on CBS Sports, Paramount+, or local networks.
Final Thought: Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious, Saturday’s match is the perfect time to experience the energy of the Washington Spirit—and witness a legend’s comeback. See you at Audi Field!
