Abby Wambach Returning to Wasington Freedom

Today the Washington Freedom officially announced they have excercised their option to retain US Women's National team member Abby Wambach.

photo property of: womensprosoccer.com

Official Press Release Below:

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Freedom Come to Terms With Eight Players Prior to 2010 WPS Expansion Draft

BOYDS, MD (Oct. 20, 2010)—Washington Freedom has begun the process of building the 2011 roster by coming to terms with eight players, including exercising the option for Freedom veteran and US Women’s National team forward, Abby Wambach.

“Abby has been an incredible team leader both on and off the field and is the ‘face’ of our franchise,” said Freedom President and General Manager Mark Washo. “We are excited she will be back with us in 2011!”

In the 2010 season, Wambach led the team with 13 goals and 8 assists, making her one of the league leaders in Women’s Professional Soccer.

“I’m looking forward to the 2011 season with Washington Freedom. It’s going to be an exciting year for women’s soccer with the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup and third year for Women’s Pro Soccer,” said Wambach.

Freedom has also come to terms with Nikki Marshall, Becky Sauerbrunn, Kristi Eveland, Jill Gilbeau, Beverly Goebel, Christie Welsh, and Erin McLeod.

“Washington Freedom has grown through the years with some of the most loyal fans of the sport. I’m excited to play in front of them again when the 2011 WPS season kicks off.” Wambach added.

The eight players Freedom have come to terms with are listed as either protected or unprotected in the 2010 WPS Expansion Draft. <http://www.womensprosoccer.com/Home/dc/news/press_releases/101019-expansion-draft.aspx>  The protected player lists, along with Freedom free agents list will be released to the public after 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 20.