HARRISON, NJ (December 12, 2023) – NJ/NY Gotham FC today announced it has traded defender Ellie Jean to Bay FC in exchange for expansion protection. Additionally, Gotham FC has sent its natural second and third round 2024 NWSL Draft picks to Racing Louisville FC, which will send $130,000 in allocation money to Bay FC in return.
 
“I would like to thank Gotham FC for initially taking a chance on me in 2022,” said Jean. “I’ve really enjoyed my time growing as a player and as a person with this club. I’ve learned so much, but more importantly, I’ve gained a lot of great friends and experiences that I’m really going to miss. Thank you to the entire coaching staff and support staff for continually guiding me to reach my greatest potential as a player, and thank you to the fans for your unwavering support and belief in me.”
 
Jean signed with Gotham FC in January 2022, after beginning her professional career overseas in Europe. Originally joining the club as an outside back, Jean seamlessly transitioned into a new role as center back this season with Gotham FC. She started in 10 of the 15 games in which she has appeared, and she started and played in all six matches in the 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup. Additionally, Jean was a starter for four shutouts for the club this year, two shutouts in the regular season and two in the Challenge Cup.
 
“Ellie stepped into a new position for us this season and did not shy away from the challenge,” said Gotham FC Head Coach Juan Carlos Amorós. “Ellie helped us in various key moments this season that helped us win the championship. It was a pleasure to work with Ellie this past season.”
 
In the 2022 season, the Coventry, Conn. native appeared in 17 regular season matches (five starts) and recorded two assists. Prior to joining Gotham FC, she played for PSV Eindhoven, one of the largest clubs in the Netherlands.
 
“Ellie is a very adaptable and smart player who has contributed immensely to our success this past season,” said Gotham FC General Manager and Head of Soccer Operations Yael Averbuch West. “We wish her the best of luck in this next chapter of her career and thank her for all of her contributions to the club, both on and off the field.”
 
Before embarking on a professional career, Jean played collegiately at Penn State University from 2015-18, where she won the 2015 NCAA Championship. In addition, Jean was featured on the United States Women’s National Team at the U-23, U-20, and U-17 levels.
 
The 2024 NWSL Expansion Draft presented by Ally is set to be held at 7 p.m. ET on Dec. 15, airing nationally on CBS Sports Network.
 

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