FOXBOROUGH — On Saturday, March 14, the Boston Legacy FC will play their first NWSL match against Gotham FC, the team where Ella Stevens won the 2025 championship over the last two seasons. Stevens, who signed with Boston in December, will compete against the club that shaped her winning mentality, bringing valuable experience to the newly formed side.
Stevens Reflects on Championship Lessons from Gotham FC
During her time with Gotham FC, Stevens appeared in 32 games, contributing seven goals and five assists. She emphasized the importance of team energy and daily commitment, stating,
“I learned that the energy you have within the team and the way you show up for your teammates every day matters, and it’s what pulls you through the end,”
according to her interview with MassLive. She added,
“It’s such a long season. Winning is important. The way you play is important. But at the end of the day, those are the people that you’re doing it with.”
Seeking New Challenges Drives Ella Stevens to Boston
After reaching success in New York, Stevens desired a fresh challenge and an opportunity to grow as a player. She expressed,
“I was looking for a challenge. I was looking to grow as a player. I felt like this place is where I would be challenged. I felt like it’s where I would be great. So that’s what I was going for.”
This motivation played a key role in her decision to join Boston Legacy FC.
Coach Filipa Patão’s Influence in Stevens’ Decision
One key factor in Stevens’ move was her interaction with Boston’s head coach, Filipa Patão. Stevens recalled,
“It was the way (head coach Filipa Patão) spoke about what we were going to do here. It was the passion she had. It was the respect she had for the game, the insights she gave. And in just the short talks we had, I could tell that she had taken the time to get to know who I was as a player personally, and you can’t really fake that level of understanding. And so it was just the conversation I had. It felt right.”
Boston Legacy Strengthens with Familiar Faces
Ella Stevens will not be the only former Gotham player in Boston’s lineup, as teammate Josefine Hasbo also joined the Legacy. Stevens commented on the connection, saying,
“The soccer world is so small, so you always end up with a friend I feel like. So, it’s really nice having Josie here.”
Anticipation Builds for Boston Legacy’s First Season
As the team prepares to begin its inaugural season, Stevens expressed excitement about representing Boston and establishing a new chapter in the city’s soccer history. She shared,
“It feels so special to be a part of it. I learned a lot when I first got here about the history and the wins and just how incredible this city is. And so, a lot to live up to, but I’m willing to put in the work. I know the girls are willing to put in the work, and hopefully, we can come out with something special.”
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Boston Legacy FC
With a player like Ella Stevens bringing championship experience and a determined mindset, Boston Legacy FC aims to make a strong entrance in the NWSL. The combination of new talent and familiar partnerships, alongside the leadership of Filipa Patão, sets the stage for a challenging and potentially successful season for the club and the city of Boston as it builds its soccer legacy.
