Newburgh, NY. & Tampa, Fla. – The United Soccer League announced today that Hudson Valley Crusaders is set to join the USL W League beginning in the 2025 season.

Hudson Valley Crusaders was founded in February 2021 by Hannah Esslie, who became the youngest founder of a soccer club in the United States after starting the Crusaders at just 16 years old. Esslie and the club are committed to providing opportunities to female athletes, coaches and professionals in athletics, continuing the local and national push for equity for women in sports.

“The Hudson Valley Crusaders are ecstatic to join the W League and host this level of soccer in Newburgh,” said Esslie. “The league is a great platform to allow the women in our program to elevate their game and test their abilities, as the Hudson Valley area is saturated with talented female athletes. We are excited to make waves and continue the success we have seen in past years in the W League this summer.” 

The club shows its commitment to serving its community and its players through initiatives such as a player-to-coach pathway, youth camps, scholarship programs, and mentorship programs along with providing its competition free of charge for the players to allow all women to compete regardless of financial situation.

The Hudson Valley Crusaders will play its home matches in Newburgh, New York, as a member of the Metropolitan Division.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Hudson Valley Crusaders to the W League,” said Joel Nash, SVP of Youth and Pre-Professional Properties. “The Crusaders have a strong club mission and a dedication to supporting women’s soccer in the Hudson Valley region, and we’re excited to provide the opportunity to showcase their high-level talent."

To learn more about the Hudson Valley Crusaders, visit the club’s website, Instagram, and Facebook.