CARY, N.C. (August 15, 2023) – The North Carolina Courage have signed goalkeeper Hensley Hancuff to a contract extension through the 2025 season and immediately loan her to Växjö DFF of the Swedish Premier Division (OBOS Damallsvenskan).
The loan runs through the 2023-24 Damallsvenskan season, although the Courage reserve the right to recall Hancuff during sanctioned FIFA transfer windows. Hancuff, who had been on a National Team Replacement Contract with the Courage, is now signed with the club long-term while getting competitive playing experience in the short-term. Växjö DFF begins their 2023-24 season on September 1, when they host Hammarby.
“Hensley has consistently shown her ability and value through her time with us this season. We pride ourselves on player development, and that includes identifying the best ways to help our players grow and thrive. Hensley had a terrific season in Australia last winter and continued match experience is the best way for her to develop. We’re thrilled for her to get this opportunity while also remaining a part of the Courage going forward,” said Chief Soccer Officer Curt Johnson.
Hancuff played collegiately at Villanova then Clemson University, where she led the Tigers to the quarter finals of the 2020 College Cup as a junior. Her 0.79 goals-against average on the season ranked fifth all-time in Clemson history for a single season.
She was drafted 24th overall in the 2022 NWSL Draft by Gotham FC but did not make an appearance for the club. After the 2022 season, Gotham loaned Hancuff to the Brisbane Roar of the Australian A-League. She played every minute of the season and made 72 saves, eventually voted Players’ Player of the Year; the third American to earn the honor.
With the return of Casey Murphy from international duty and loan of Hancuff, the Courage active roster remains at 26 players, including three goalkeepers in Murphy, Katelyn Rowland, and Marisa Bova. The Courage resume NWSL league play this Sunday, August 20, when they visit the Portland Thorns for a 10:30 p.m. ET (7:30 PT) kickoff at Providence Park.
