Houston Dash 2025 player report cards: Abby Smith
(image via Houston Dash)
We’re continuing our 2025 report card series, recapping each Houston Dash player’s season. Next up, we take a look at goalkeeper Abby Smith.
2025 Grade: B
2025 by the numbers (NWSL play)
Appearances: 9
Minutes played: 798
Clean Sheets: 2
Saves: 47
Goals Against: 17
(image via FBref.com/FBcharts.com)
2025 in review
Smith was signed last offseason to give the Dash a veteran backup with NWSL experience behind Jane Campbell who could fill in when needed. Smith was thrust into the starting role after Campbell struggled early on in the season and did a solid job.
The former Texas Longhorn put up good numbers in the matches she played, posting two clean sheets and keeping out 2.6 more goals than expected accoring to post-shot xG plus/minus. Smith isn’t flashy but she gets the job done more often than not.
Moment of the season
Smith was back on the bench later in the season, until Campbell went down with an injury early in the home match against the Chicago Stars in September. Smith replaced the Dash captain in goal, playing 78 minutes and making six saves to help Houston post a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory.
Looking forward
Smith is now out of contract and a free agent. She could return to the Dash as a backup but young goalkeeper Liz Beardsley could be ready to take over that role. If Smith doesn’t come back to Houston she could look for another team in the NWSL who needs a starter, or someone to compete for a starting job, as she proved this season she still has what it takes to play every week between the posts.
