Gotham Takes NWSL Championship Victory Lap to New York City Hall
NEW YORK – Three hours of sleep before a Monday morning report time of 10:00 a.m. is usually a recipe for disaster, but for Gotham FC, the hard work was already done. While New Yorkers literally hustled to work and school, Gotham players and staff boarded an open-top bus near City Hall less than 48 hours after winning their second NWSL Championship, visibly showcasing their triumph. Trophy and winners’ medals? Open-top bus? Check. Sunglasses to mask fatigue and the shots that Championship MVP Rose Lavelle and general manager Yael Averbuch West had taken in that morning? Check.
This return to New York was fitting for Gotham, who won the title in what was described as ’the toughest way to get there,’ according to midfielder Jaelin Howell. They entered the playoffs as the lowest-seeded team, eliminating the Kansas City Current, who won the NWSL Shield this season, reigning champions Orlando Pride, and perennial favorites Washington Spirit. Gotham proved they were an atypical No. 8 seed with Jaedyn Shaw’s famous quote, “Underdog my ass,” echoing through City Hall, even referenced by outgoing mayor Eric Adams. The team’s resilient defense limited the Spirit to no shots on target on Saturday, showcasing the brilliance of both Shaw and Lavelle during their playoff run.
This NWSL Championship marks Gotham’s first since transitioning from a scrappy underdog to a super team, having reached the playoff semifinals every season for the past three years. Notably, they also claimed the inaugural Concacaf W Champions Cup earlier this year, securing their spot in the upcoming FIFA Women’s Champions Cup in January.
Leaning into the joyous moments, Howell remarked on the team’s tenacity: “We demonstrated grit and a never-say-die attitude. It’s surreal, but everything is falling together beautifully.”
The theme of unity was prominent during Gotham’s celebration, particularly noted by minority investor Carolyn Tisch Blodget. She highlighted the importance of defining the club’s culture and the joy of celebrating their victories. “The word ‘family’ kept coming up, it makes the journey that much sweeter.”
Despite facing challenges, Gotham played with joy and determination, earning their celebratory trip to City Hall. This victory lap signifies a culmination of diverse journeys converging into a moment of shared success.
