Angel City FC forward Claire Emslie returns to active roster from maternity leave
Emslie could make her return to the pitch on Mother’s Day Weekend.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 12: Claire Emslie #10 of Angel City FC warms up prior to the NWSL match between Houston Dash and Angel City FC at Shell Energy Stadium on April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/NWSL via Getty Images) | NWSL via Getty Images Angel City FC announced that forward Claire Emslie will return to the club’s active roster this Saturday and Emslie will be available for selection in the team’s upcoming match against San Diego Wave FC. Emslie is returning from maternity leave following the birth of her son, Jamie, in December 2025.
The first-time mom has been with Angel City since the club’s inaugural season in 2022 and holds the record for most goals in club history with 16 across all competitions. “I am so excited to get back out on the pitch and play in front of the fans again,” said Emslie. “The time away has made me appreciate being on pitch now.
It is so fun. I get to kick a ball around a pitch, enjoy being with my teammates, and play for something more. I love being a mom, and I am also proud of being a footballer.
I hope my journey has shown that with the right support and determination, you can do both. ” Saturday’s match against San Diego Wave FC marks one year since Emslie last made an appearance in the NWSL, where she started in a 2-0 win over the Utah Royals.