San Diego Wave FC announced a trade with the Portland Thorns on Monday, sending Tegan McGrady to Portland for Madison Pogarch.
McGrady was acquired by the Wave prior to the start of the 2022 season in a trade with the Washington Spirit. In her third NWSL season, she played 10 games, primarily at the left back position. With Wave FC, McGrady had 19 clearances, seven interceptions and nine chances created.
"On behalf of the club, I thank Tegan for everything she has done for San Diego Wave FC in her time here,” Wave FC general manager Molly Downtain said. “As part of our inaugural roster, Tegan made an impact on and off the field and she'll always be part of the Wave family."
Another place to call home, thank you San Diego 🌊💙 https://t.co/qN3xXJxWwk
— Teegs9⚽️ (@teganmcgrady9) July 25, 2022
Madison Pogarch comes to Wave FC as a left back. This season, she appeared in 10 games and had nine clearances, eight interceptions and five chances created, including two assists.
“Bringing in Pogarch will add so much value to our current roster both on the field and in our environment,” Wave FC head coach Casey Stoney said. “I’m excited to see what she can add to our environment.”
With McGrady out, Pogarch adds depth to the left back position. With a complete roster, Kristen McNabb has been the starting left back for Wave FC, but she has started games in the defensive midfield while several players were out due to international tournaments.
With the extension of McNabb last week, it seemed as though McGrady’s time with Wave FC was nearing the end. Starting in eight games for the NWSL champions last season, a new environment gives her an opportunity to become an every game player.
Welcome to San Diego, Po! 🌊#WaveFC | @maddiepogarch pic.twitter.com/jkjoHanpcs
— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) July 25, 2022
In 28 NWSL appearances, Pogarch has started just seven games. This gives Wave FC valuable experience in the left back off the bench, as she can change games even when given inconsistent minutes. 2022 has been her most successful NWSL season so far. Her five starts and two assists are a career high for her.
Whether starting or coming off the bench, Pogarch is sure to be featured in the second half of this season. She is first available for the Wave in the upcoming August 7 match against the Kansas City Current.