Hannah Stambaugh stays with Angel City FC through 2025 as key to future ambitions

Angel City FC announced that Japanese goalkeeper Hannah Stambaugh extended her contract to continue with the club through 2025. The move is strategic, as ACFC wants to be competitive this NWSL season, with a strong foundation in place. Stambaugh has stability, experience, and potential.

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A goalkeeper who inspires confidence

At just 25 years old, Hannah Stambaugh joined Angel City in 2024 from Omiya Ardija Ventus, a club in Japan's WE League. Not yet an undisputed starter, but her presence on and off the field has turned heads, no doubt.

As ACFC's technical director, Mark Wilson, noted: "Hannah exemplifies the professionalism, dedication, and cultural values that Angel City FC holds dear. Her attitude and commitment, both on and off the pitch, make her an integral part of our immediate growth as a club." A Quiet Leader On and Off the Field In her statement, Stambaugh expressed not only gratitude but also a collective vision that underscores her team spirit:

“I want to personally thank every member of the ACFC family—our dedicated staff, my amazing teammates, and our passionate fans. Your support, commitment, and energy make all the difference, and I’m truly grateful to be part of this incredible community.”

This mentality hasn't gone unnoticed. While she may not yet dominate on the field, her presence in the locker room has been pivotal for team cohesion. For a club with only a few years of existence, values like commitment and strong team culture are as crucial as technical prowess.

A promising past, a bright future

Her football career first saw success in Akishima, Tokyo, the place where Stambaugh began. At 25 years old, she brings experience with both the youth and senior national teams of Japan. Her most memorable international triumph came at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, where she was part of the Japanese winning squad and kept clean sheets in three games.

This international pedigree is a key reason ACFC decided to extend her contract. As Wilson pointed out:

“Hannah has earned the admiration of our fan base and locker room, and her continued presence will undoubtedly inspire and motivate everyone around her. We’re excited to see her grow further and contribute to our success in the upcoming season.”

A piece of Angel City’s puzzle

While Stambaugh is still fighting for a consistent starting role, the renewal of her contract shows ACFC's belief in her development. Retaining a goalkeeper who is not a standout in the league shows the club's long-term vision, investing in a player with both technical growth and leadership potential.

Whether as a reliable backup pushing the starter or as the game-changer in vital moments, Hannah Stambaugh is ready to make a difference for Angel City.

Looking ahead to 2025

In a league as competitive as the NWSL, building a solid core could be the difference between finishing atop the table and just battling for playoff positions.

Stambaugh seems ready for the challenge: "Let's make the next season unforgettable! Volemos!"