Expansion Summit Welcomes USWNT Captain Heaps

Lindsey Heaps, a native of Colorado, will join Denver Summit FC after finishing her season with Lyon in the French Première Ligue. The 31-year-old will make a free transfer, signing through the 2029 NWSL season, and is expected in Denver by June.

“I’m excited to return to Colorado and join Denver Summit FC,” Heaps shared. “This club is important, not just for the league, but for the community and the next generation of players here.”

A spokesperson for the team mentioned that it is uncertain if any part of Heaps’ contract will utilize High Impact Player funds.

Heaps, the captain of the United States national team, is a significant acquisition for the new expansion teams, including Denver and Boston Legacy FC. This move marks her return to the NWSL after playing for Portland Thorns FC from 2016 to 2021 before transferring to Lyon, first on loan. Previously, she played for Paris Saint-Germain.

While with the Thorns, Heaps contributed to four championship wins, including the 2017 NWSL Championship, where she scored the sole goal and earned MVP honors. The Thorns also secured shields in 2016 and 2021, along with the 2021 Challenge Cup. In 2018, she was named league MVP despite the team’s loss in the NWSL Championship.

At Lyon, Heaps has celebrated four league titles and a UEFA Champions League victory. Currently, the team is performing well in the league and progressing to the quarterfinals of the Champions League this season.

“I’m dedicated to finishing the season strong with Lyon and look forward to starting this new chapter in Denver this summer,” Heaps stated.

Throughout her time at Thorns, Heaps went by her former name, Lindsey Horan.

Internationally, Heaps has represented the United States 170 times, scoring 38 goals. She was part of the 2019 World Cup-winning team and started all six matches leading to an Olympic gold medal in 2024.

“Lindsey will elevate our team with her world-class skills and reflects the aspirations of our club on and off the field,” said Summit FC Head Coach Nick Cushing. “Her achievements at every level and her leadership will enhance the standards at Summit FC when she joins us this summer. We are delighted to welcome back a local player to Denver as we aim for championships and community growth.”