Cary, NC (December 16, 2021) – The North Carolina Courage today announced they have signed 2x ACC Defensive Player of the Year Malia Berkely to a two-year contract following a transfer agreement with FC Girondins de Bordeaux that involved allocation money. North Carolina acquired Berkely’s discovery rights and the 12th pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft from Kansas City in exchange for the Courage’s 2022 natural first round draft pick.
“I am super excited to be a part of this club considering the legacy North Carolina has,” Berkely said. “I know it will be a place for me to grow as a player and person, and I am happy to be able to compete with and against amazing athletes. I can’t wait to get started!”
Berkely has been playing in France for Bordeaux since January of this year. A graduate of Florida State University, Berkely is one of the most decorated players in the university’s history, playing in 84 matches, recording four goals and fourteen assists while leading the Seminoles to three ACC Championship titles and an NCAA Championship title. Berkely was also named ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2019 and 2020.
“We are extremely excited about the addition of Malia,” Head Coach Sean Nahas said. “She was someone we identified as a top player after her collegiate career. She brings great understanding and patience to the game, and is an incredibly technical and proficient passer of the ball. She is someone who wants to be challenged and get better everyday, and nowhere better to do that than here in NC. Our staff is really excited to have her and we look forward to working with her soon.”
