Angel City FC rising stars Alyssa and Gisele Thompson have entered a groundbreaking partnership with TOCA Football, a leading tech-driven soccer enterprise. In an exciting development, the Thompson sisters have also secured equity stakes in the company, as per an official announcement.
The collaboration between the Thompson sisters and TOCA aims to promote soccer extensively across the United States, with a particular focus on inspiring young girls to engage in the sport at a competitive level. TOCA Football innovative programs cater to individuals of all ages, offering accessible training sessions designed to enhance skills. As part of this partnership, Alyssa and Gisele will actively participate in various public relations initiatives and photoshoots aimed at amplifying the product’s reach. However, specific details regarding their investment remain undisclosed.
We are always on the lookout for exceptional talent, remarked TOCA founder Eddie Lewis during an interview. The Thompson sisters have been on our radar for quite some time. Not only are they exceptional players, but their genuine connection with TOCA, stemming from their early training days, sets them apart. Their potential is immense, and we’re thrilled to have them onboard.
Alyssa made history as the first-ever NWSL player to be selected as the No. 1 overall pick straight out of high school in the 2023 NWSL draft. She subsequently signed a lucrative three-year contract with Angel City FC. Meanwhile, Gisele joined Angel City FC in December, just days before turning 18. Her contract spans three years with an option for the club to extend until 2027.
In 2022, the NWSL introduced guidelines permitting up to two players under the age of 18 to join a club’s roster, subject to parental or guardian consent. These players are enlisted in an Under-18 Entry List and are guaranteed contracts for the season upon reaching the age of 18.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the partnership, Gisele stated, “We take immense pride in inspiring young athletes to remain dedicated and give their best effort every day.”
TOCA board director and U.S. women’s national team icon, Abby Wambach, expressed her support, emphasizing that the inclusion of the Thompson sisters will inspire younger players to leverage tech-driven approaches to enhance their skills.
Lewis noted a growing trend among young athletes investing in various brands, mirroring the move made by the Thompson sisters who became the first high school athletes to sign with Nike in 2022.
Alyssa’s meteoric rise is evident from her nine appearances with the USWNT, making her the youngest player to be called up for a full national team camp since Sophia Smith in 2016.
The partnership between the Thompson sisters and TOCA Football marks a significant milestone in the soccer world, blending talent, technology, and a shared vision to inspire the next generation of athletes.
