Houtexusa at English Wikipedia, BBVA Compass Stadium, North Facade, CC BY-SA 3.0
The Houston Dash is Houston’s pride in women’s soccer, competing at the highest level in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) since their establishment in 2014. Known for their dynamic play and unwavering dedication, the Dash represent Houston on the national stage, showcasing the city’s love for soccer and the growing prominence of women’s sports in the United States. With their home games held at the vibrant Shell Energy Stadium, the Dash offers fans thrilling soccer action and a strong sense of community pride. Let’s dive deeper into the story, achievements, and culture of this remarkable women’s soccer team.
The Birth of the Houston Dash
The journey of the Houston Dash began with a vision from the Houston Dynamo, Houston’s Major League Soccer (MLS) team. In November 2013, the Dynamo revealed their intent to bring women’s professional soccer to the city. After gauging the community’s support, they started accepting refundable deposits for season tickets to secure a spot in the NWSL. Just a month later, the league approved an expansion, granting Houston its own women’s team.
On December 12, 2013, Dynamo president Chris Canetti announced the team’s name: the Houston Dash. This name reflects speed and energy, symbolizing the fast pace of soccer and paying homage to Texas’ historical connections with horse-drawn transportation in the 1800s. The team adopted the same color scheme as the Dynamo—black, orange, and sky blue—and designed a crest that displays a soccer ball with “Houston Dash” alongside blue lines, embodying Houston’s spirited, high-energy character.
Ownership of the Houston Dash
The Houston Dash shares ownership with the Houston Dynamo, managed by an influential and diverse group. Notable owners include:
- Ben Guill and Jake Silverstein: Local business leaders with a commitment to advancing Houston sports.
- Gabriel Brenner: Investor and a key figure in the Dynamo and Dash ownership.
- Oscar De La Hoya: World and Olympic boxing champion and avid sports promoter.
- James Harden: NBA MVP and former Houston Rockets player, adding star power and visibility to the ownership.
Brian Ching, a former Dynamo star, took on the role of managing director, handling day-to-day technical and business operations, all while building the Dash’s identity and growing their fanbase.
Coaches of the Houston Dash
The Dash has seen several talented coaches who have each contributed to the team’s growth:
- Randy Waldrum (2014): The Dash’s first head coach, formerly of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, where he won two national titles.
- Vera Pauw (2017-2018): Brought a wealth of international coaching experience, helping shape the team’s tactics and style.
- James Clarkson (2018-present): Hired as head coach in 2018, Clarkson emphasizes teamwork and resilience, guiding the Dash through competitive NWSL seasons and instilling a winning mindset.
Where the Dash Play: Shell Energy Stadium
The Houston Dash plays their home games at Shell Energy Stadium, a premier soccer-specific stadium in downtown Houston. This state-of-the-art venue opened its doors in May 2012, making history as the first soccer-specific stadium in a U.S. city center. With a seating capacity of 22,039, Shell Energy Stadium offers an intimate and energetic atmosphere for fans, bringing them close to the action on the field.
During the Dash’s inaugural season, the stadium allocated 7,000 seats in the lower bowl for their home games, ensuring a dedicated space for Dash supporters to cheer on their team. The stadium itself has become a central hub for Houston’s sports community, hosting major soccer events, concerts, and other entertainment, making it a significant part of the city’s cultural fabric.
Competing in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
The National Women’s Soccer League, or NWSL, is the top professional women’s soccer league in the United States. Managed in partnership with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), the league was established in 2012 as a successor to the Women’s Professional Soccer league (WPS), which ceased operations in 2012.
Starting in 2013 with eight teams, including several former WPS teams, the NWSL has grown significantly, attracting top players from around the world. It has become a launchpad for rising stars and a premier league for many international players to compete at a high level. The Dash joined in 2014 as part of the league’s first wave of expansion, making Houston one of the few cities with both a men’s and women’s professional soccer team.
The league operates with a commitment to fostering women’s soccer in the U.S., providing a platform for female athletes to showcase their talents on a national and international level. Over the years, the NWSL has seen increasing fan support, television coverage, and sponsorship, signaling a growing interest in women’s soccer and a promising future for the sport.
Key Players and Achievements
The Dash roster has featured numerous standout players over the years, helping the team make its mark in the NWSL:
- Rachel Daly: Known for her versatility and scoring ability, Daly has become a fan favorite and international star, representing England in competitions.
- Kealia Ohai: A talented forward who previously played for the U.S. national team, Ohai brought skill and energy to the Dash lineup.
- 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup: The Dash claimed their first major trophy by winning the NWSL Challenge Cup. They defeated the Chicago Red Stars 2-0 in the final, marking a proud achievement for both the team and its fans.
Building a Community and Inspiring the Next Generation
The Houston Dash goes beyond soccer, actively engaging with and giving back to the community. Their outreach efforts include:
- Youth Clinics and Camps: These are organized for young players to learn skills and meet their favorite Dash players.
- Community Engagement: The Dash hosts events throughout Houston, building a strong fanbase and creating lasting connections with local supporters.
- Advocacy for Women in Sports: The Dash uses their platform to highlight female athletes’ achievements and advocate for equality and increased resources for women in sports.
Through these initiatives, the Dash inspires young players, especially girls, to pursue their dreams and view sports as a path to personal growth and empowerment.
The Future of the Houston Dash
View this post on Instagram
The future is bright for the Houston Dash as they continue to build their legacy in the NWSL. With a dedicated fan base, talented roster, and supportive ownership, the Dash is poised to achieve even greater success in the coming seasons. The team’s commitment to excellence on the field, coupled with their efforts to uplift the community, makes them a valuable part of Houston’s sports scene and an essential component of the growing women’s soccer movement in the U.S.
Conclusion
The Houston Dash embodies Houston’s passion for sports, community, and progress in women’s athletics. From their establishment in 2013 to their accomplishments in the NWSL, the Dash show resilience, teamwork, and dedication. They’re a testament to the city’s love for soccer and commitment to supporting women’s sports.
For anyone in Houston or a fan of soccer, attending a Dash game at Shell Energy Stadium is more than just watching a game—it’s experiencing the energy of Houston, supporting women’s sports, and joining a community of dedicated fans. Whether you’re a longtime soccer fan or new to the sport, the Houston Dash invite you to be part of a journey that’s only just beginning.
