The Washington Spirit re-signed defender Anna Heilferty to a two-year contract with a team option for 2025.

The club didn’t announce financial terms but said the new contract takes effect immediately, replacing her existing deal for 2023.

Heilferty appeared in 29 of Washington’s 30 matches in 2022 and assisted on two goals. From nearby Falls Church, Va., Heilferty said she is happy to remain with her hometown team.

“This is home! I feel incredibly lucky to get to do what I love in this city,” Heilferty, 23, said in a news release. “I can’t wait to get started on another great year and continue to give back to our fans and the DC community.”

She played at Boston University, then was selected by the Spirit with the 19th overall draft pick in 2021.

“Anna is someone I already know well from preparing for the 2021 college draft and it has been great to see her progress over the last two years,” head coach Mark Parsons said. “I believe she has the ability to play in different positions for us and I’m looking forward to seeing her take more important steps in 2023.”

–Field Level Media