With just over two weeks until Salmon Bay FC’s season opener against FC Olympia, it’s time to preview the season ahead — including the opponents, both new and familiar, the expectations, and more as the club prepares for its second-ever season.
Running it Back
Salmon Bay FC’s inaugural season in 2025 was a smashing success, with consistently packed crowds, great soccer being played, and a lot of wins.
Now it’s time to do it all again as Salmon Bay FC’s second season starts very soon. This year the club is aiming for more, the nation’s best defense wants to make its first playoff appearance.
Added Firepower
Last season, Salmon Bay FC only allowed two goals throughout the entire summer. With key defenders like Alicia Barker and Kaya Hanson returning, the defense will be tough to break down once again.
But this year, the Salmon Sisters will be looking to add more goals in attack to accompany the stout defense. In addition to Samiah Shell, Salmon Bay FC’s all-time leading goalscorer, returning, the club has also announced the signing of All-American Ginny Lackey. Lackey was the NW Division Player of the Year in 2025, winning the division crown with FC Olympia and leading the division in scoring. With a great defense and a bolstered attack, Salmon Bay FC is aiming for their first NW Division Title.
Divisional Makeup
The 2026 USL W League NW Division is made up of seven teams across Washington and Oregon. Each team will play each other exactly twice, once at home and once on the road.
This year, there are two new clubs joining the division: Snohomish United and the Portland Cherry Bombs. With the rivalries between Snohomish, Portland, and Ballard FC on the men’s side, fans can assume these new teams are going to be feisty competitors for Salmon Bay FC.
FC Olympia has won the NW Division Title in all three years of their existence from 2023 to 2025. Now there are more competitors than ever looking to steal their spot on top of the Iron Throne.
Only one club from the division will make the playoffs, the division winner. With just one playoff spot, every match matters. One goal, one cross, or one tackle could be the difference between a good season and a great one. Read the full NW Division Preview.
Stadium Updates
Ahead of the 2026 season, Salmon Bay FC fans will get an upgraded experience at Interbay Stadium.
At this moment, the Interbay Stadium expansion is underway as a new 267 bleacher seats are being built on the southeast section of the stadium next to the home bench.
In addition to expanded seating options, the club has secured a expanded liquor license to allow alcohol to be taken out of the beer garden and back to the stands. Take a look at the updated stadium maps below to check out the new updates.
Roster Makeup
Like last year, the roster is made up primarily collegiate players. 17 players from the 2025 Salmon Bay FC roster are returning this summer. The returners are headlined by Shell and two of her Big Ten Champion teammates, Anna Menti and Maya Loudd. In addition to Barker and Hanson in defense, the midfield will also return key players such as 2025 co-captain Ameera Hussen.
There is a ton of talent amongst the new players as well. Lackey is joined by other former FC Olympia players like Ava Uribe and Eleanor Morrissey. Their championship experience will help Salmon Bay FC on their quest to their first division crown.
Get Tickets
With the season just around the corner, it’s time to secure your seats. Learn more about all of the different ticket options, and purchase yours below.
Written by Max Dresbach
