Tampa Bay Sun make initial player signings: Three big names with significant NWSL experience joins USL Super League squad
Erika Tymrak, a Gator favorite and NWSL veteran is the headliner; two other key signings of NWSL veterans are made as well
Note: photos below are courtesy of the Tampa Bay Sun
Tampa Bay Sun FC, unveiled its first three player signings this morning in advance of the inaugural USL Super League season which kicks off this August. All three signings have significant high-level professional experience.
Erika Tymrak, locally a legend in Florida soccer circles is among the signings. A Bradenton, FL native and standout midfielder from the University of Florida. Tymrak brings a decorated career to Tampa Bay Sun FC, a former U.S. Women’s National Team player, a two-time NWSL Champion, recipient of the coveted SEC Offensive Player of the Year award, as well as the honor of being inducted into the University of Florida’s Hall of Fame. From international play to championship wins with FC Kansas City and stints with Utah Royals FC and Orlando Pride, Tymrak's experience is undeniable.
"It's a dream come true to be part of Tampa Bay's first professional women's team," Tymrak says. "I'm thrilled to bring my experience back home and contribute to bringing a championship to this incredible city."
Tymrak has 3 USWNT caps. Her playing experience includes two stints abroad at Melbourne City of the A-League and Bayern Munich of the Frauen-Bundesliga.
Joining Tymrak is dynamic midfielder Jordyn Listro. Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Listro is a professional soccer veteran, having served on the Canadian national team and played for NWSL clubs Orlando Pride, North Carolina Courage, and FC Kansas City. She also boasted record-breaking career appearance records at the University of South Florida. Her relentless work ethic and midfield mastery promise to ignite the Sun's offense.
“I can’t wait to play professional soccer in a city that holds a special place in my heart,” says Listro. “The vibrant community and the passionate support for sports here is incredible. It's especially exciting to see women's soccer finally making its mark in Tampa, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”
Listro has been capped twice for the CanWNT.
Completing the formidable trio is powerhouse midfielder Dominique Richardson (Domi). Domi arrives with a proven professional career that began with the Houston Dash and continued with FC Kansas City and Sky Blue FC-NJ/NY Gotham FC. She also had a decorated collegiate career at the University of Missouri, where she secured All-SEC First Team honors and set a program record for starts. Richardson has also played with the U.S. Youth National Teams.
“Playing for Tampa Bay Sun in its inaugural season is an honor and great opportunity to continue to grow the game. Women’s sports, and women’s soccer specifically, have exploded over the last few years; the USL is providing another high-level, competitive, avenue for women’s soccer here in the States,” shares Domi Richardson. “It’s incredible to play for a team in its first year and be a part of building the foundation for years to come. Tampa has a deep love for and rich history in professional sports. The city is ready for a women’s professional team and I cannot wait to see the fans and make an impact in the community!”
A proven athlete with a fierce determination and a perfect fit for Sun FC's championship aspirations.
“These three women are humble, hard-working and talented players. They are culture builders and the foundation of our future,” shares Head Coach Denise Shilte-Brown, “We are building something extraordinary here with Tampa Bay Sun Football Club and it’s a product our community can be proud of.”
The Sun appear to this point this best organized and most prepared USL Super League club. These three signings jump start the Sun’s preparation for its first season as well as its already robust community-engagement efforts.
Photos from Tampa Bay Sun FC