Notre Dame star Leah Klenke joins hometown Dash

Notre Dame defender Leah Klenke signed with her hometown Houston Dash on Thursday.

Klenke, 21, is under contract with the NWSL club through the 2028 season.

She tallied five goals and 17 assists in 78 appearances with the Fighting Irish from 2022-25.

"Leah is a talented and versatile player that brings a winning mindset and strong leadership following a decorated career at Notre Dame," Dash president of soccer Angela Hucles Mangano said. "Beyond her on-field talent and leadership, she's a Houston native who embodies the culture and work ethic we value in our club. We're excited to see her bring that talent and drive to our roster as we look towards the 2026 season and beyond."

Klenke helped Notre Dame reach the ACC championship game for the first time ever in 2025. The two-time All-ACC first-team selection was named a first-team All-American as a senior.

"I am super excited to begin my professional career in the NWSL with my hometown team at Shell Energy Stadium," Klenke said. "... I can't wait to contribute and help the team build on their strong finish last season. From my first conversations with the club, it was clear there's a vision for success, and I can't wait to be a part of it."

--Field Level Media