HOUSTON (Oct. 21, 2026) - The Houston Dash and defender Natalie Hammond agreed to a multi-year contract through the 2028 NWSL season, the club announced today.
“We’re excited to have Natalie remain with the Dash as we continue to build a strong foundation in Houston,” said Angela Hucles Mangano, President of Women’s Soccer. “Natalie has shown the adaptability, professionalism and a commitment to improvement that we value as a club. She continues to grow as a player, and we believe there are still more levels for her to reach. We look forward to supporting her development and continued impact on the team."
Hammond joined the Dash as a non-roster invitee ahead of the 2026 season and signed with the club through the 2026 NWSL season on April 10. The defender made her professional debut on Aug. 8 against the Kansas City Current before earning her first professional start on Aug. 18 against Chicago Stars FC. Hammond has appeared in eight matches this season, earning five starts.
“I’m very happy to continue my career in Houston and to be part of what we’re building with the Dash,” Hammond said. “I’ve really enjoyed my time with this team and the people who have welcomed me since I arrived. Being able to compete at this level and represent this club has been an incredible experience, and I’m looking forward to continuing to push myself, compete for this team and help us achieve our goals.”
The defender joined Houston following a decorated four-year career at Xavier University, where she made 85 starts and logged 7,346 minutes. Hammond recorded nine goals and seven assists during her collegiate career while earning multiple United Soccer Coaches All-American honors, three First Team All-Big East selections and two Big East Defensive Player of the Year awards.
As a senior in 2025, Hammond started all 21 matches and helped lead Xavier to a Big East Tournament title. She recorded three goals and four assists while anchoring a defense that posted 12 shutouts. Hammond was named First Team All-Big East and Big East Defensive Player of the Year for the second consecutive season.
