Chicago, Il. – Chicago Red Stars defender Jackie Santacaterina underwent successful surgery of her right hip on Wednesday, September 25, which included labral debridement, femeroplasty, and a capsular repair. Surgery was conducted by Dr. Benjamin Domb at Weiss Memorial Hospital.

Santacaterina first reported the injury on June 29, during a match at Seattle Reign FC, but was able to continue competing through the end of the Red Stars season.

“I am really bummed my offseason won’t exactly be going as planned,” said Santacaterina post-surgery. “But I am doing all I can to prepare for the 2014 season.”

Santacaterina, a 25 year-old Geneva native, became an integral part of the Red Stars backline late in the season, after competing at the defensive center midfield position. She moved to the back after several teammates were befallen with injuries of their own and helped commandeer the defense along with fellow centerback Sonja Fuss. Their tandem was a crucial piece in helping the Red Stars make a case for the playoffs, although the team fell just short of that goal.

She started 14 games for the Red Stars in 2013, logging 1306 minutes of playing time, and scored 3 goals along with an assist. Her breakout game offensively came late in the season on August 10, when the Red Stars met Sky Blue FC at home. Santacaterina scored come-from-behind goals in the 77th and 90th minutes to level the final score at 3-3.

She is expected to return to full playing condition in 6 months.