WASHINGTON D.C — As the season kicks off and Washington Spirit gears up for the NWSL Challenge Cup, let’s revisit the 2022 opener against OL Reign and post-match ring ceremony for the 2021 Championship. They kicked off the season with a 2-1 win over the Seattle-based team with over 10,000 fans in the stadium, according to a Spirit press release.

Ashley Sanchez caught the lead for Spirit, with Rose Lavelle scoring the equalizer soon after the second half. Ashley Hatch’s goal in the 66th minute won Spirit the game, with no scoring opportunities in the last 25 minutes.

The 2021 Championship Ring ceremony featured club majority owner Michele Kang presenting the players with their individualized rings, engraved with their name and number. Mayor Muriel Bowser also declared November 20 as Washington Spirit Day. The ceremony ended with a performance by Ella Mai, who was decked out in Spirit gear.

Photos by Taneen Momeni