Chicago Red Stars midfielder, Sarah Woldmoe, has announced her retirement from professional soccer. The Indiana native joined the Red Stars at the end of 2020 from Sky Blue FC.

“After the birth of my son in August, I have decided to retire from professional soccer to be close to family,” said Woldmoe. “Thank you to the Chicago Red Stars organization for the support and for the opportunity to play at the highest level. Thank you to the fans as well! I’m excited for what lies ahead, and I look forward to cheering on the Red Stars for the 2023 NWSL season!”

“On behalf of the Red Stars, I’d like to thank Sarah for her contributions to the club. She played a pivotal role for us in 2021, helping the Red Stars reach the championship match,” said Red Stars Associate General Manager, Michelle Lomnicki. “Her skills and leadership will be missed in the locker room, but we wish her all the best in motherhood, with her family and in the next chapter of her life.”

In 2021 Woldmoe played 28 games for the Red Stars, starting in 23, between the Challenge Cup, regular season and playoffs. On August 28, 2021, the midfielder notched a brace against the Kansas City Current, the first brace by a Red Star player since Sam Kerr in September of 2019.

During the 2021 playoffs, Sarah provided Red Stars fans with another memorable performance. 15 minutes into the second half of the semifinals match, Woldmoe took a shot from long distance that found the back of the net putting Chicago up 2-0 against the Portland Thorns in the semifinals and securing a spot in the 2021 finals for the Red Stars.

Woldmoe also had a decorated international career. In 2013 she won the Four Nations Tournament with the United States Under-23 team. As a member of the U-20 team, Sarah won the CONCACAF Women’s Championship and the U-20 World Cup.

The Red Stars are grateful for Sarah’s contributions on and off the pitch to the team and wish her and her family the best of luck in the next stage of her life.