NWSL · NWSL · Cary, North Carolina, US · WakeMed Soccer Park
North Carolina Courage
Back-to-back NWSL champions in 2018 and 2019, the North Carolina Courage are deep into a rebuilding cycle and working to recapture the dominance that made them the most feared team in league history.
2017–2019
The Dynasty
Back-to-back champions and league dominance
From the moment the franchise relocated to Cary, North Carolina, the Courage were a machine. In 2018, they completed the Shield-Championship double with a dominant 3-0 victory over the Portland Thorns in the final. In 2019, they did it again, demolishing the Chicago Red Stars 4-0 in the championship. The Courage set records for points, wins, and goal difference during this run, establishing a level of dominance the NWSL had never seen.
Key Facts
- Won back-to-back NWSL Championships in 2018 and 2019
- Completed the Shield-Championship double in both seasons
- Set league records for points and wins during their dynasty run
- Squad featured Sam Mewis, Crystal Dunn, Lynn Williams, and others
2020–Present
Rebuilding
New direction after the dynasty
The departure of key players and coaching changes led to a period of transition for the Courage. The club has worked to rebuild its roster and identity while competing in an increasingly competitive league. The challenge now is returning to championship contention in a landscape that has changed dramatically since the dynasty years.
Key Facts
- Key players from the dynasty era departed through trades and free agency
- Coaching changes brought new tactical approaches
- Club working to rebuild competitive identity
- League's overall talent level has risen dramatically since 2019