The Youngest NWSL Player Signed

As of March 21st San Diego Wave signed 15-year-old Melanie Barcenas, making her the youngest player in NWSL history. She has signed a three year contract with the club. Born in San Diego, Barcenas signed her contract at 15 and 138 days old. Before joining the wave, the forward played with San Diego Surf and spent time in the young levels of the United States women’s national team. Wave is excited to have a new edition to the team. They emphasized that they will play a huge role in her development and are ecstatic to see her potential grow. They did however make a very important point to not take her teen years away, as they are the most important years of one’s life. Freshman soccer player Claire Powell stated, “It’s insane how good she must be to get signed at this age. I bet she has been working very hard and deserves a chance to show her potential.” Powell is right, Barcenas has been working hard to make her dream a reality, especially being so young. It’s definitely going to be intimidating at first, playing with such older players, and those who are at such a high level, it’s going to be hard for Barcenas to adjust to, it would be for anyone. Hopefully Wave sticks to their word and lets Barcenas have normal teenage years. Powell stated, “This is a great opportunity for her. I bet her family is proud and can’t wait to see her play at such a big level.” Many can’t wait to see Barcenas play her game