Virginia Development Academy’s Audrey McKeen Signs with NWSL Club Racing Louisville Virginia Development Academy (VDA) U19 standout Audrey McKeen has signed a professional contract with the NWSL’s Racing Louisville, becoming one of the youngest players in the league. The 17-year-old Vienna, Virginia native is set to officially join the club in 2026. The deal is through the 2028 season. "We are extremely excited for the opportunity that lies ahead for Audrey; she has earned this with hard work and sacrifice,” said Matt Lacey, VDA Technical Director. “Her obsession to always strive to improve and push on to the next level will have a lasting impact on our program and future generations of female players to come.” “Audrey’s commitment to excellence and desire to improve has helped her get to this milestone in her journey,” said Bobby Puppione, VDA Girls ECNL Director. “We are proud of her for earning this opportunity to move on to the professional game, and we know she will inspire future generations at VDA and all across the DMV.” Over the past two years, McKeen has been a consistent presence with U.S. Youth National Teams, earning call-ups to camps and international trips with the U17, U18, and U19 teams. Her individual accolades include United Soccer Coaches Youth All-American, ECNL All-American, and Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year honors. At the club level, she helped her VDA ECNL Girls team reach the semifinals of the ECNL National Championships as the club earned a top 15 national ranking. “VDA has been instrumental in helping me grow both as a player and a person, and I truly wouldn’t be at this point in my journey without this amazing club,” said McKeen. “The daily environment pushes me every day, with professional staff, dedicated teammates, and a culture that is not only first class on the soccer side but incredibly supportive on a personal level. I’m extremely grateful for everything this club has done for me, and I’m so excited to take the next step in my journey by signing my first pro contract at age 17.” Racing Louisville made their first appearance in the NWSL Playoffs this past season. McKeen will join the club at the beginning of 2026 as they kick off their sixth year in the league.

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