The Lion's Pitch

The NC Courage draw Gotham FC on the road, remaining unbeaten in their first two matches of the season. Trevor and Katie break down the match, look ahead to a struggling Bay FC, and dig into an encouraging culture shift within the Courage.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Gotham FCDebuts from Evelyn Ijeh, Sydney Schmidt, and Uno Shiragaki injected new energy into the match. We break down Mak Lind's surprise back five and the growing Carly Wickhenheiser and Riley Jackson partnership.Standout StatsGotham had 59% possession and twice as many passes in the Courage's half, so why didn't it feel that way? We dig into what the numbers actually tell us.Looking Ahead: Bay FCBay comes to WakeMed missing key defenders and with questions up front. We break down what to expect from Saturday's home match and make our picks for the starting XI.Courage NewsLind and Ryan Williams both spoke this week about celebrating small wins and building a culture of positive reinforcement.Around the LeagueSix red cards through two match days compared to 11 in all of 2025. We look at what's driving the surge. Plus, congratulations to Manaka Matsukubo and Japan on winning the AFC Women's Asian Cup.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage kicked off the 2026 NWSL season with a 2-1 win over Racing Louisville. Trevor and Katie are joined by special guest Bill Nottingham, stats analyst and writer at splat.cc, to break down the win. We also look ahead to a tough road match against defending champions Gotham FC, and catch up on the latest Courage news.Follow Bill on bsky @notting.bsky.social.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Racing LouisvilleThe season started with an Ashley Sanchez brace and a debut to remember for Kailen Sheridan. We break down everything that went right, what still needs work, and why we are feeling good about where this team is headed.📊 Standout StatsThe numbers from the Louisville match tell a surprisingly confusing story. We dig into what the stats actually mean and what we can and cannot take away from week one.🔮 Looking Ahead: Gotham FCDefending champions, a dangerous new attacking core, and an away match in week two. We break down what the Courage need to do differently against Gotham and why getting Evelyn Ijeh back could be a difference maker.📰 Courage NewsIt was a big week off the pitch for the Courage. We catch up on the latest roster and leadership news coming out of the club.🌎 Around the LeagueOpening weekend delivered across the board. We look at the biggest storylines from around the league and what they might mean for the 2026 NWSL season.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

SummaryThe NC Courage are back. A potential $40 million investment, a brand new kit, and a season opener against Racing Louisville, this is the episode to get you ready for the 2026 NWSL season.In This Episode📰 Courage NewsKick off the new NWSL season with big news for NC Courage fans, including a potential $40 million investment that could reshape the club's future and a fresh new Venus flytrap-inspired third kit that everyone seems to love.📋Predicted LineupWe break down their predicted starting eleven for our NWSL opener against Louisville, debating midfield choices between Carly Wickenheiser and Shinomi Koyama, as well as a potential attacking four.🔮 Looking Ahead: Racing LouisvilleWe preview the NWSL season opener against Racing Louisville, breaking down what makes the Courage's first opponent so tricky to play against and why, despite the challenge, they both like NC Courage's chances on Saturday.🌎 Around the LeagueTrevor and Katie wrap up with a look around the league, reflecting on a promising She Believes Cup run for the US Women's National Team and what it could mean heading into the road to the 2027 World Cup.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

Summary The Courage are gearing up for 2026 with new faces like Evelyn Ijeh, Ally Schlegel, Carly Wickenheiser, and Kailen Sheridan, while returning leaders Riley Jackson, Manaka, and Feli Rauch are ready to make an impact. We preview early-season challenges, bold goals for the team, and exciting updates on stadium plans and international call-ups. In This Episode 🔮 Looking Ahead: 2026 NWSL Season The Courage kick off a new era with a revamped roster and a coach focused on scoring and cohesion. Early wins, goal distribution, and navigating tough travel and expansion matchups will set the tone for the season. 📰 Courage News We cover some big updates for the Courage this week, including updates on a new stadium development and international call-ups. 🌎 Around the League We touch on some key league news, including Croix Bethune moving to Kansas City, Claire Hutton joining Bay FC, and Savy King being cleared to return to Angel City. About The Lion’s Pitch Podcast Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way. New episode drops every Thursday. Subscribe & Follow Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

Katie and Trevor break down the North Carolina Courage’s roster overhaul, from entirely new keepers to scoring superstars. Who’s gone, who’s new, and who will lead the team? Get analysis and a peek at what we hope this revamped squad can do in 2026. Courage Country, this is your must-listen season kickoff!About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the Courage close the season with a thrilling win over Gotham FC, showcasing skill, cohesion, and potential despite missing the playoffs. We break down standout stats, discuss hopes and key moves for 2026, highlight team milestones, and preview the NWSL playoffs as the league’s top teams battle for the championship.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Gotham FCThe Courage closed the season with a thrilling win over Gotham, dominating with sharp passing, strategic attacks, and opportunistic finishing. Despite controlling the game and showcasing their best play of the season, the team’s fate was tied to other results, and they ultimately missed the playoffs. Still, the performance highlighted the team’s skill, cohesion, and potential heading into next year.📊 Standout StatsDespite giving up a high volume of shots—especially inside the box—the Courage’s defense held strong, blocking key opportunities and limiting real threats. Offensively, the team was efficient, converting three of their twelve shots into goals, showing precision and finishing that capped off the season on a high note.🔮 Looking Ahead: 2026 SeasonAs the Courage head into the offseason, there’s a lot to consider for 2026, from potential roster moves to key free-agent decisions. The discussion focused on hopes for a more consistent starting 11, stronger set-piece defending, spreading goal-scoring responsibilities, and adding veterans or marquee players to support the team’s young core.📰 Courage NewsThe season brought plenty of milestones and highlights for the team. Record-breaking performances, standout contributions, and individual achievements underscored the talent on the pitch and set an exciting tone as the Courage look toward 2026.🌎 Around the LeagueThe playoffs are set, and the league’s top teams are gearing up for some intense matchups. With dominant performances and late-season momentum shaping the postseason, fans can expect high-stakes action and plenty of excitement as teams vie for the championship.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, The NC Courage battle a rain-soaked Washington Spirit to a dramatic draw, with clutch plays and a dominant midfield. Plus, we break down key stats, look ahead to a must-win matchup, and share the latest league news shaping the season.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Washington SpiritThe Courage battle through rain, drama, and playoff pressure to draw the league’s No. 2 team. We break down lineup shakeups, clutch saves, and a late equalizer that keeps the postseason dream alive—barely.📊 Standout StatsThe Courage go toe-to-toe in a dead-even battle: 50/50 possession, level XG, and one fierce midfield trio stealing the show. Riley Jackson, Shinomi, and Manaka dominate the rain-soaked chaos, proving the future of the Courage is already here.🔮 Looking Ahead: San Diego WaveThe Courage face a struggling Bay FC with everything on the line, and while the opponent has nothing to lose, North Carolina has no room for error.📰 Courage NewsThe latest from the Courage highlights exciting developments on and off the field, with players making strides and fans keeping the energy high.🌎 Around the LeagueAround the league, playoff races are heating up, leadership decisions are shaping the future, and long-time players are stepping away, leaving a lasting legacy. There’s drama, growth, and change at every level.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

In this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the NC Courage fall, but the playoff race is still mostly alive. We break down the challenges, the team’s fight to stay in contention, and preview the crucial upcoming matchup, plus the latest league news and standout stats as the postseason battle heats up.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs LouisvilleThe Courage faced tactical tests, tough goals, and late-season pressure in a rollercoaster match against Louisville, but even after a hard loss, there’s still plenty of fight left and hope for a playoff push.🔮 Looking Ahead: Washington SpiritThe Courage face a tough test this weekend against one of the league’s strongest teams, and every move on the field will count in this high-stakes matchup.📰 Courage NewsThe Courage are filling the stands and bringing the energy, with fans creating an electric atmosphere this season!About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell