Independence Signs Heather Mitts to 3-year Deal
Team Strengthens Franchise Future with Veteran Presence
Reserve Your Tickets Now to be There to Welcome Her Back to Philly!
The Philadelphia Independence is pleased to announce the signing of US Women’s National Team player, Heather Mitts, to a three-year contract. “This is a huge accomplishment for our franchise,” says Independence Owner David Halstead. “Heather is an accomplished athlete, a team leader, and an exemplary role model for youth. She is committed to helping the WPS and team connect to the Philly communities and we are proud to have her on board for the next several years as we grow and move forward.”
Mitts was signed by the Independence from free agency. Prior to entering free agency, Mitts played with the Boston Breakers for the inaugural WPS season in 2009. During her time with the Breakers she played in 19 matches, primarily at left back. No stranger to Philadelphia, Mitts was selected in the second round of the WUSA draft by the Philadelphia Charge in 2001. For the Charge she started all 51 games over three seasons, helping the club to the WUSA playoffs in the first two years. Mitts was also a WUSA All-Star in 2003.
“I am very excited to sign on with Philadelphia and I’m committed, just like the rest of the Independence staff and players, to make this franchise flourish,” said Mitts. “Philadelphia is a great city with such passionate sports fans. Our team has a very talented group of players, many of whom I’ve either played with, or against, at one point during my career. I’m really looking forward to the start of the season. It’s going to be a great few years!”
Mitts was an All American at the University of Florida and the school’s all-time leader in games played (95), starts (94) and minutes played (7,547). In 1999, she helped the Gators to their first and only NCAA Championship.
During this preseason period, the Independence is busy signing other players as well. The team has signed multi-year contracts with Swedish National Team Captain Caroline Seger, and Icelandic National Team player Holmfrider Magnusdottir.
The Philadelphia Independence host its inaugural match on April 11th against the Atlanta Beat. Call 1-877-WPS-PHIL or visit www.independencetix.com to reserve your seats today!
Hi
It’s me again Mike Beckmann of Kirkwood, Missouri. That’s great that The Philly Independence was able to sign Heather Mitts to a 3-year deal. I still wished that Heather would of signed with our team The St. Louis Athletica especially now that we have Shannon Boxx formerly of The L.A. Sol on our Team. I thought Heather along with Shannon, Lindsay Tarpley and my number one favorite Athletica star/player Hope Solo could of helped us get to the 2010 WPS Finals and win The 2010 Championship. I will still support her indiviually and I can’t wait to see her when she and The Philly Independence come here to St. Louis and when our Athletica go up to Philly this year. I also can’t wait to see Shannon Boxx of our Team against Heather that will be great because they are both two of my favorite overall WPS stars/players.