Houston Dash 2025 player report cards: Anna Heilferty
(image via Houston Dash)
We’re continuing our 2025 report card series, recapping each Houston Dash player’s season. Next up, we look at defender Anna Heilferty.
2025 Grade: C+
2025 by the numbers (NWSL play)
Appearances: 5
Minutes played: 66
Goals: 0
Assists: 0
2025 in review
Anna Heilferty joined the Houston Dash late in the 2025 season, signing a short-term contract on September 12 to provide depth and experience to a back line that had endured injuries and inconsistency throughout the year. Having been without a team since December 2024, following her release from the Washington Spirit and recovery from an ACL injury, her arrival in Houston was both a chance at redemption and an opportunity to reestablish herself in the NWSL.
Heilferty appeared in five regular-season matches, mostly as a late substitute to help close out games. While her time on the field was limited, she showed composure, professionalism, and a good understanding of defensive structure — valuable traits for a player working her way back from long-term injury.
Moment of the season
Anna’s best moment came in the season finale against the Portland Thorns. Entering the match at half time with the team trailing 2–0, she helped stabilize the defense and prevent further damage, bringing calmness and discipline to the back line. It was a small but meaningful contribution that highlighted her experience and defensive awareness.
Looking forward
The future remains uncertain for Heilferty. Her short-term contract with the Dash concluded at the end of the season, and as of now, the club has not indicated whether she will be offered a new deal for 2026. Her brief stint in Houston showed flashes of reliability and resilience, and if she remains healthy, she could earn another opportunity — whether in Houston or elsewhere in the league.
