(image via Aldo Canale)
We’re continuing our 2026 report card series, recapping each Houston Dash player’s season. Next up is defender Paige Nielsen.
2026 Grade: C+
2026 by the numbers
Appearances: 27
Minutes played: 2,148
Goals: 0
Assists: 0
2026 in review
Nielsen was one of the veterans tasked with pouring into the rookie class, particularly her center-back pairing with Leah Klenke. Paige is a quiet leader who puts her head down and goes to work. She did exactly that this season. However, her performances weren’t always consistent. Some days, Nielsen would make solid defensive tackles, while on others, she would be caught out of position.
Perhaps the expectations placed on her are much higher than those of the younger players, which can be unfair. Unfortunately, though, that was the story for much of the squad in 2026.
Moment of the season
This is going to sound crazy, but I think one of her best games came in a 4-3 victory against Racing Louisville. Nielsen made 14 defensive contributions to help the team stay in the match and keep all three points at home.
To be fair, two of the opponent’s goals came from the penalty spot, neither of which she was responsible for.
Looking forward
Nielsen is under contract through the 2028 season. She is a veteran the squad needs to lean on as it embarks on yet another fresh start with a new coaching staff.
At 33 years old, she could be one of the club’s key leaders alongside Jane Campbell and Danielle Colaprico, helping usher the younger players into a new era.
