Zephyr

 Spokane, Wash.- Spokane Zephyr FC looked destined for heartbreak after conceding a late equalizer, but a dramatic stoppage-time goal flipped the script and secured a thrilling 2-1 win over Tampa Sun FC at Riverfront Stadium. 

Zephyr FC (5-7-6) remains in sixth place, while Tampa Sun FC (6-5-8) holds on to fifth. However, only five points separate the two sides in the standings as the playoff race tightens. 

“What a performance from the team today, from the first whistle to the last,” said Zephyr FC Head Coach Jo Johnson after the win. “I always say, ‘It takes what it takes’ to win games, and our players embodied that tonight. It wasn’t always pretty, but we did what was necessary to secure all three points.” 

Despite a scoreless first half, both teams had quality chances to take the lead. In the 23rd minute, an errant pass from Zephyr FC goalkeeper Hope Hisey left an open net for Tampa—until Sarah Clark made a miraculous goal-line clearance to keep the visitors off the board. 

Coach Johnson highlighted Clark’s game-saving play: “Sarah Clark’s selfless goal-line save and Ally’s courageous late game-winning finish were defining moments. It took all 90 minutes, and we did it together as a team. I couldn’t be prouder of the group.” 

Zephyr FC nearly scored in the 44th minute when a flying header was expertly saved and cleared by Tampa’s defense. By halftime, Spokane had tallied eight shots to Tampa’s four, but both defenses held firm. 

The deadlock was finally broken in the 61st minute when Zephyr FC captain, Taylor Aylmer looped a shot over the out-of-position Tampa goalkeeper. It looked like her effort might be enough to seal a gritty defensive win.

Tampa Bay Sun FC wasn’t finished. In the 89th minute, they converted a free kick opportunity, slotting home the equalizer and the home crowd went wild. With just three minutes of stoppage time remaining, Spokane seemed destined to settle for a draw. 

In the dying moments, a perfectly weighted lob found Cook, who split two defenders and stretched to get a clean strike on goal—sending the ball past the keeper and sending Zephyr FC fans into jubilation. The late heroics secured Spokane’s second consecutive victory, their first back-to-back wins of the season. 

“I was so proud of our team fighting for all 90-plus minutes,” Cook said after the match. “I knew we were going to be disappointed if we ended in a tie, so it felt so good to get the goal for the team.” 

With the win, Spokane Zephyr FC closes the gap to just seven points from a playoff spot, with ten games remaining on the schedule. 

Captain Taylor Aylmer praised her team’s effort: “That was a total team performance and a huge road win. Really proud of everyone for sticking together and finding a way to walk away with three points.” 

Spokane Zephyr FC looks to continue their winning streak on Saturday, March 22, when they take on Fort Lauderdale United FC in Florida. Catch all the action live on Peacock+. 

Spokane, Wash. — Spokane Zephyr FC is gearing up for a pivotal midweek clash against Tampa Bay Sun FC this Wednesday, March 19, at Riverfront Stadium in West Tampa, Florida. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. 

Riding high after a thrilling 3-2 victory over DC Power FC, Zephyr FC heads into this matchup brimming with momentum. That crucial win propelled them to sixth place in the Super League standings, and they’ll look to build on that success. 

In their last outing, midfielder Katie Murray opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a well-placed shot just inside the box. Emina Ekić delivered the game-winning heroics, converting a penalty kick in the 65th minute and adding another goal in stoppage time to seal the victory. 

Speaking about her approach during the decisive penalty, Ekić shared her focus. “I’ve done this shot plenty of times before; it was in my sweet spot,” Ekić said. “I was trying to keep it low and hit it hard so it could go against the wind.” 

Murray also reflected on her goal and her evolving role in the attack. “I knew I was around the box, and I’ve been trying to be more intentional about having the green light to take these shots,” Murray said. 

Zephyr FC will aim to carry their offensive momentum into Wednesday’s matchup. The last time these two sides met, Tampa Bay Sun FC edged out Zephyr FC in a close 3-2 contest. Zephyr FC had jumped to an early lead before Tampa Bay mounted a comeback. Tampa Bay Sun FC currently sits fifth in the Super League standings and is coming off a narrow 1-0 win over Carolina Ascent FC. 

This on-the-road fixture will be available to stream live on Peacock+. 

For information and tickets to the next Zephyr FC home match, please visit: https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets/

 Spokane, Wash.- Spokane Zephyr FC won 3-2 against DC Power FC in their second home match of the 2025 Spring season on Saturday, March 15. 

Spokane Zephyr FC coach Jo Johnson spoke about the club’s offensive success following the match. 

“I think the three goals are almost more important to me than the three points, because that’s been our Achilles’ heel. To build on that momentum into the next one, especially on the road, gives us confidence to put some in the back of the net,” said Johnson. 

Spokane Zephyr FC (4-7-6) scored in the 36th minute with a goal by Katie Murray. Murray rebounded a shot that bounced off the left goalpost and sent the ball into the net, giving Spokane a 1-0 lead into halftime. Power (3-9-5) tied the match in the 49th minute with a goal by midfielder Anna Bagley. 

DC Power FC took a 2-1 lead in the 63rd minute with a goal by forward Gianna Gourley in the open pitch. Spokane Zephyr FC responded moments later with a penalty kick goal by Emina Ekić in the 65th minute. A second goal by Ekić in stoppage time sealed the win for Spokane Zephyr FC. Defender Reese Tappan made her debut for Spokane Zephyr FC in the 70th minute after signing with the club in February. 

Ekić spoke about her free kick goal in stoppage time that solidified the win for Spokane Zephyr FC. 

“I’ve done this shot plenty of times before, it was in my sweet spot,” said Ekić. “I was trying to keep it low and trying to hit it hard so it could go against the wind.” continued Ekić. 

Ekić has now recorded 5 goals in 12 matches during Spokane Zephyr FC’s inaugural season. Murray has 2 goals recorded this season, scoring two goals in three matches. 

Murray spoke on her goal in the first half that helped spark Spokane Zephyr FC’s offense. 

“There was a good string of passes leading up to that,” explained Murray. “I knew I was in around the box, and I’ve been trying to be more intentional about having the green light to take these shots,” said Murray. 

Head Coach Jo Johnson also spoke on the adjustments Spokane Zephyr FC was able to make throughout the duration of the match. 

“I thought we did better being composed, figuring out if we need to go through a round or over it, and then they couldn’t take away all three,” said Johnson. 

Spokane Zephyr FC improved to 4-7-6 with the win, while DC fell to 3-9-5 with the loss. Spokane Zephyr FC sits in sixth place in the USL Super League and is five points behind Tampa Bay Sun FC for fifth place. The next Spokane Zephyr FC match is Wednesday, March 19 against Tampa Bay Sun FC at Riverfront Stadium in Florida. The match will kick off at 4 pm PST and can be streamed on Peacock+. 

For tickets to Spokane Zephyr FC matches and more information visit: 

Tickets

#Welcometotheedge 

USL Spokane has launched two professional soccer teams in Spokane, Wash. Spokane Zephyr FC, a women’s professional team, plays in the USL Super League that is sanctioned as Division One by the U.S. Soccer Federation. The men’s team, Spokane Velocity FC, is a Division III team in USL League One that reached the league Final in their inaugural season. 

 Spokane, Wash.– Sarah Fawcett joins Zephyr FC for a two-week residency program in Spokane, WA. 

USL W League Pleasanton RAGE Head Coach Sarah Fawcett finished up her two-week program with Spokane Zephyr FC this last Sunday, March 9. The USL Foward Pro Preseason Residency program launched in 2024 and works to be a multi-dimensional, leaguewide initiative aimed at “identifying and developing promising coaches to serve the next generation of professional level technical leaders in the USL and soccer industry on a wide scale.” This program’s vision is “to create access and opportunity for coaches in the soccer ecosystem.” 

Spokane Zephyr FC was chosen to host this program and host the Forward Residency coach based on five expectations to implement and follow through the duration of its hosting responsibilities. To include being operational, possessing leadership, showing development, cultivating a sense of belonging and showing excellent communication structure and practices. 

USL Spokane was honored to host Sarah Fawcett for this two-week period where she was able to experience training, front office atmosphere and the spring season home opener match against Carolina Ascent FC at ONE Spokane Stadium on March 8, 2025. Zephyr FC finished with a score of 2-1, with a fall to Carolina Assent FC. However, Zephyr FC showed true grit and perseverance during the second half of the match, further proving this team’s ability to not only want success on the pitch but having the want to earn their success on the pitch. 

Reflecting on her time in Spokane, WA, Fawcett spoke to her experiences with the Zephyr FC coaching staff, players and front office staff of USL Spokane. She stated: 

“I cannot speak highly enough of my time at Zephyr FC. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by a dedicated and supportive team—from the tech staff and players to the front office and game-day operations. Everyone made me feel like a vital part of the organization. It has been an incredible opportunity to contribute to such a dynamic club and to receive invaluable mentorship from exceptional individuals. I am deeply grateful for the experience and the lasting relationships I’ve built along the way.” 

Head coach for Spokane Zephyr FC Jo Johnson spoke about the two weeks that Sarah Fawcett spent training with her and the Zephyr FC team. She described this experience by stating: 

“Having Sarah with us in Spokane for the past two weeks as part of the USL Forward Pro Preseason Residency Program was an absolute pleasure. She immediately immersed herself in our environment from day one, observing how we reflect on past performances, prepare for upcoming matches, and handle the daily operations of a club. Beyond learning from the technical staff, Sarah took the initiative to engage with different departments, gaining insight into areas like social media, partnerships/sponsors, and the game day fan experience. Her curiosity, enthusiasm, and growth mindset were truly inspiring, and she seamlessly integrated with our staff and team. Sarah has a bright future ahead in coaching, and we are honored to have played a small role in her journey.” 

Johnson continued: 

“Programs like USL Forward provide invaluable experiences for coaches to gain behind the scenes exposure to professional organizations, helping develop the next generation of leaders in the game. It’s an incredible initiative in coach development, and we’re proud to support it.” 

USL Spokane is proud to create opportunities for women’s sports. The honor of hosting the USL Forward program is another way USL Spokane works to get women on the pitch. 

For more information about USL Spokane or Spokane Zephyr FC, visit: www.uslspokane.com 

#Welcometotheedge 

USL Spokane has launched two professional soccer teams in Spokane, Wash. Spokane Zephyr FC, a women’s professional team, plays in the USL Super League that is sanctioned as Division One by the U.S. Soccer Federation. The men’s team, Spokane Velocity FC, is a Division III team in USL League One that reached the league Final in their inaugural season. 

Spokane, Wash.- Spokane Zephyr FC lost 2-1 to Carolina Ascent FC in their 2025 Spring home opening match on Saturday. 

Zephyr FC (3-7-6) showed grit in the second half after struggling to find offensive opportunities in the first 45 minutes. Carolina Ascent FC (7-4-7) played tough defense throughout, keeping Zephyr FC scoreless until the 84th minute. 

Carolina Ascent FC put the pressure on early, with a goal by Vicky Bruce at the 4th minute putting Ascent up 1-0. An uncontested header goal by Jenna Butler put Carolina up 2-0 heading into halftime. 

After a slow start offensively in the first half, Zephyr FC was able to generate better opportunities in the second half. Zephyr FC had five corner kicks by the 68th minute but were unable to find a clean pathway to goal. 

Zephyr FC forward Ally Cook scored her first goal for the club off a penalty kick at the 84th minute, keeping hopes of a comeback alive. Cook had a chance to tie the match in stoppage time, with a straight shot at the goal being blocked by Carolina Ascent FC goalkeeper Meagan McClelland. Cook led Zephyr FC with energy throughout the match in her first start with the club. 

Zephyr FC Head Coach Jo Johnson spoke on Cook’s impact on the club after the match. 

“She gives us a strong hold-up option and pushes the team in training,” said Johnson. 

Carolina Accent FC played physically all night which stalled offensive pushes by Zephyr FC. Three different players on Carolina Ascent FC received yellow cards. 

Coach Johnson spoke on the team’s performance and second half response. 

“Proud of the fight in the second half, but we need to play a full 90.” 

“We stayed more connected, which helped us transition better and create more attacking options.” 

Zephyr FC forward McKenzie Weinert was proud of the club’s ability to get a goal back in the second half. 

“Tough result tonight, we weren’t happy with how we came out in the first half and were punished for it, but we responded well in the second half, and I’m proud of that fight from the team to get one goal back,” said McKenzie. 

Spokane fell to 3-7-6 with the loss, while Carolina improved to 7-4-7 with the win. Zephyr FC sits in sixth place in the USL Super League. The next Zephyr FC match is Saturday, March 15 against the DC Power FC at ONE Spokane Stadium. The match will kick off at 2 p.m. PST. 

For tickets to Zephyr FC matches and more information visit: 

Tickets

#Welcometotheedge 

Spokane Zephyr FC secured their first win on the road against Dallas Trinity FC on Saturday afternoon at Cotton Bowl Stadium, 1-0. 

Zephyr FC has kicked off their Spring season with a road trip to Dallas, heading back to 509 with an additional 3 points. Spokane (3-6-6, 15 points) battled Dallas Trinity FC (6-4-6, 16 points) to secure their first win on the road. From midfielder Katie Murray scoring her first goal for Zephyr FC, and the debut of new signing Ally Cook, Spokane is having an impressive start to their Spring season.  

The first half was filled with multiple player debuts, including that of midfielder Mollie Rouse in the starting eleven. Rouse attempted a shot on goal in the first 10 minutes, but ultimately success was found in the 15^th minute by Katie Murray. With an assist from midfielder Emma Jaskaniec, Murray put the ball deep in the back of the net, solidifying this as her first goal since playing for Zephyr FC. The score remained 1-0 through the end of the half.  

Kaite reflected on her goal during the match. 

“The goal starts with us beginning to find ourselves in the game. Credit goes a lot to Emma using her strength to hold the ball up and play a great pass to me. I am happy to help contribute.” 

 Murray expressed on the impact of her fellow teammates. 

“I’m very proud of the fight and mentality of our team this game. Everyone stepped in and made an impact from start to finish. It was a total collective effort to secure the points. We will continue to build and focus one game at a time.”  

The second half of the match kicked off with attempts at both goals, both teams fighting to secure the lead. With the score still 1-0, Coach Jo Johnson made a substitution in the 64^th minute, replacing Mollie Rouse with a debut appearance by Ally Cook. 

 Ally Cook spoke to her debut on the pitch sporting the Zephyr FC kit.  

“It was so amazing getting to play my first game with the Zephyr! You could feel the excitement and passion amongst all the girls. I’m excited to continue this momentum into this second half of the season. I can’t wait to see what this team is able to accomplish.” 

A foul on Julianne Vallerand occurred in the 80^th minute, leading to her resting on the sideline but ultimately returning to the action following the whistle. With four minutes of stoppage time added to the clock, forward Riley Tanner was subbed in, also making this her debut match.  

“It was great to get out there and help my teammates finish the fight in the end! I am so proud of the team and the way they grinded to get the win! I can’t wait for our next home game March 8th!” 

The last play of the match ended with a free kick given to Dallas, ultimately being blocked by goalkeeper Hope Hisey. Hisey maintained a clean sheet throughout the duration of the match, leading to Zephyr FC walking away with their first win on the road and three more points. 

Coach Jo expressed her excitement about the match win over Dallas FC tonight. 

“Today the team delivered a gusty performance on the road. Road points are always extra special.”  

Coach Jo Johnson went on to say “We’ve played Dallas close the last couple of games we faced them, so it was nice picking up the three points. The team showed their commitment to growth and improvement from our fall experience. They executed the game plan, and it was a true team effort; supporting and showing up for one another.” 

After securing her first win on the road, Coach Jo Johnson and Zephyr FC will be returning to their home pitch on Saturday, March 8 to take on Carolina Ascent FC at 6 p.m. in their spring home opener. The match kicks off at 6 p.m. PST and will be streamed on Peacock. 

USL Spokane has launched two professional soccer teams in Spokane, Wash. Spokane Zephyr FC, a women’s professional team, plays in the USL Super League that is sanctioned as Division One by the U.S. Soccer Federation, with a home opener August 17 at ONE Spokane Stadium. The men’s team, Spokane Velocity FC, is a Division III team in USL League One that has reached the league Final in their inaugural season. 

Reese Tappan has traded her crimson and gray kit for a Zephyr basalt black and wheat gold kit.

Spokane, Wash.-Tappan, 22 signed on with Spokane Zephyr FC earlier last week just in time to join the team on the road for the spring season opener on Saturday, February 22 against Dallas Trinity FC.

Tappan expressed her excitement for her first season with Zephyr FC.

“I’m thrilled and super grateful to start my professional career with Spokane Zephyr FC. The coaching staff and team have been more than welcoming and have made me feel at home! Truly excited to be part of the soccer community in the city of Spokane!”

Tappan, hailing from Newcastle, WA, played as a Cougar at Washington State University. During her Junior season, Tappan started in all 19 season games, beginning the season with an opening goal and assisting to a win over Eastern Washington University.

Two-time state champion and two-time all-league selection, Tappan attended Liberty High School in Renton ,WA.

Head Coach of Spokane Zephyr FC, Jo Johnson discussed the newest addition to the back line.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Reese to our squad. She brings a strong leadership presence by the way she carries herself and through her example on the field. She will add strength, size, and valuable depth to our back line. Her speed, athleticism, and aggressive presence will be a significant asset to the team.”

Zephyr FC spring season home opener is Saturday, March 8 at 6 p.m. PST against Carolina Ascent FC. Catch the action live at ONE Spokane stadium.

Tickets are are available now at https://www.uslspokane.com/tickets/

USL Spokane has launched two professional soccer teams in Spokane, Wash. Spokane Zephyr FC, a women’s professional team, plays in the USL Super League that is sanctioned as Division One by the U.S. Soccer Federation. The men’s team, Spokane Velocity FC, is a Division III team in USL League One that reached the league Final in their inaugural season.

The gals are on the road and back on the pitch, bringing the hype in hopes of a triumphant victory against Dallas Trinity FC to kick off the second half of the 2024/25 season. Following their 6-match stretch that concluded with a fall to the Tampa Bay Sun and a road 0-3-3 record, some much need TCL and recovery time has the Zephyr back and ready for action in the Dallas heat. 

Ally Cook signed on earlier this month as Zephyr prepares for the season opening return match up in Dallas, TX. Cook, who previously sported a jersey for the Chicago Red Stars of the NWSL, is now outfitted in Zephyr’s iconic Black and Gold as a forward and is geared up for her introduction as a part of this historic Zephyr team. Following her successful college career, she was named first team All- Pac 12, ranking fifth in the category of conference goals and ninth in conference points. Signing on with the Chicago Red Stars, Cook had 15 game appearances and earned her first professional assist against the Utah Royals. 

Jo Johnson, Zephyr head coach, stated Cook’s signing is particularly attractive due to her proven ability as an addition to the offensive line and her past successes. 

Cook expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of Zephyr. “I’m looking forward to being a part of USL Spokane and to experience a new city and team,” she said. “The staff and team have been so welcoming. I really valued their emphasis on character and team culture. I can’t wait for this season!” 

Sophia Braun and McKenzie Weinert have graduated from loan status to contracted and are invested to contribute to this historical inaugural season success alongside Cook and the rest of Zephyr FC. 

Tune in at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22 as Spokane Zephyr FC take on the Dallas Trinity FC at the Cotton Bowl Stadium! 

Cheer on YOUR Spokane Women’s Soccer team to victory by steaming the game live on Peacock+ 

Mark your calendars for the return of Spokane Zephyr FC to their home turf! The much anticipated spring schedule home opener is Saturday, March 8. Tickets are now on sale through TicketsWest. 

USL Spokane has launched two professional soccer teams in Spokane, Wash. Spokane Zephyr FC, a women’s professional team, plays in the USL Super League that is sanctioned as Division One by the U.S. Soccer Federation. The men’s team, Spokane Velocity FC, is a Division III team in USL League One that reached the league Final in their inaugural season. 

#WelcomeToTheEdge 

By Kaya Crawford, Gonzaga University ‘26

A hallmark of Spokane Zephyr FC match days is the themes. The first half of the season experienced themes like STEM Nights and Breast Cancer Awareness Day. As Zephyr prepares to take the pitch for the second half of their inaugural season, fans can expect exciting match day themes when they come to support the club at ONE Spokane Stadium this spring. 

Zephyr will take on Carolina Ascent FC on March 8 at 6 p.m. for their first home match this second half of the season. The match day theme is “The Future Is Female” and will recognize women-owned businesses and opportunities for women and girls throughout the Spokane community. 

Fans of Girl Scout Cookies and soccer may wish to find themselves at Zephyr’s match against DC Power FC on March 15 on what will be Girl Scout Day. Thin Mints and Samoas may not be the typical stadium food, but you can come enjoy our Girl Scout Cookie giveaway while cheering Zephyr onto victory.

A Spokane summer is something to look forward to and Zephyr is bringing summer feelings a few weeks early with“Beach Blanket Bingo” when Spokane takes on Brooklyn FC on April 3. Wear your sunglasses, beach towels and Hawaiian beach shirts to bring the heat and support Zephyr for a weeknight match.

Spokane may be known as Hooptown USA, but with the introduction of Spokane Zephyr FC and Velocity FC, there is no denying the city is finding a love for soccer too. Though the Lilac City may love sports, it also has a love for art and Zephyr will recognize that with the match day theme of “Paint the Town Gold and Black” when they take on Dallas Trinity FC on April 12. Honoring local artists and performers pre-game and at halftime, the day will be fueled by creativity that extends beyond the pitch. 

Celebrate the 90s on April 26 when Zephyr faces Tampa Bay Sun FC with “90s Night.” Hits from your favorite 90s artists will bring the energy for the match and help the gals get the win. 

Join Zephyr FC in recognizing the amazing work mom-figures do! On May 3 let’s “Celebrate Moms” when Spokane takes on Lexington Sporting Club. Soccer Moms are the best, just ask Rhianna, from taking them to matches, washing their dirty laundry and cutting orange slices for a halftime snack! Bring your mom and celebrate a night of soccer at ONE Spokane Stadium. 

Zephyr face off with Fort Lauderdale United on May 31 for their final home match of the season and “Military Appreciation” night. Help Zephyr honor military members in the Spokane community and catch the final regular season match of the inaugural season.

Zephyr has seven home matches to close out their inaugural season. Pack the stands on these exciting theme nights and cheer the club on the victory while witnessing history for women’s soccer in Spokane. We hope to see you at a match this spring!