“You’ll be okay. You got this.” This was Abby Smith’s optimistic message to herself on an inspirational August day in 2024 as she wrote out an encouraging note for herself in 2025. On June 29, 2023 with NJ/NY Gotham FC against San Diego Wave (in a game which ended 2-1 for San Diego Wave), Abby sustained serious injuries which would require extensive recovery before returning to play in 2025 with Houston Dash colors proudly displayed across her shirt.
Abby Smith has experienced two years of hiatus from professional soccer due to an unexpected and unfortunate injury she encountered against San Diego which resulted in an abrupt end of her season and required extensive rehab work before making a comeback attempt.
The Long Road to Recovery
Smith’s path to recovery was shared through updates on social media, reflecting the physical and mental hurdles she had to overcome. Despite the challenges, she maintained focus and determination, supported by her close ones, enabling her to navigate through a year filled with lows and enlightening moments towards recovery.
While Smith was sidelined, she witnessed her team participate in the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup Final without her active involvement, further fueling her determination to return to play.
A New Chapter with Houston Dash
Though she aimed to make the most out of the 2025 season with Gotham, fate had different plans. The team’s successful gamble on another goalkeeper during her absence led to Smith’s transfer to Houston Dash, marking the end of her time with Gotham but not her impact. Her remarkable performance before the injury, including 45 saves and four clean sheets across 15 regular season games, attests to her skill and dedication to soccer.
Smith has already begun showing her talent with Houston Dash, where she made an excellent comeback after almost two years away from NWSL competition. In an exciting match against Seattle Reign, her exceptional skills played an instrumental role in helping Houston Dash win narrowly; showing she remains a dominant presence despite all odds on the pitch. It marked not just a win for Dash but also marked Smith’s triumphant return after nearly two years’ absence in making their NWSL return in this way.
As Abby Smith continues her journey with Houston Dash, her resilience and talent indicate there may be much more in store from this resilient goalkeeper. Abby’s story illustrates the unyielding spirit of an athlete overcoming hardship.