Houston Dash sign Notre Dame defender Leah Klenke

(image via Notre Dame Athletics)

The Houston Dash have made their second signing of this offseason, agreeing to a contract with Notre Dame defender, and Houston native, Leah Klenke through the 2025 season. Klenke appeared in 78 matches (all starts) for the Fighting Irish across four seasons and scored 5 goals and tallied 17 assists.

“Leah is a talented and versatile player that brings a winning mindset and strong leadership following a decorated career at Notre Dame,” President of Soccer, Angela Hucles Mangano, said. “Beyond her on-field talent and leadership, she’s a Houston native who embodies the culture and work ethic we value in our club. We’re excited to see her bring that talent and drive to our roster as we look towards the 2026 season and beyond.” 

This season Klenke was named a United Soccer Coaches First Team All-American. She also took home three straight All-Region honors and four straight All-ACC honors. Klenke played for the United States at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. She appeared off the bench in every match, helping the Americans to a third place finish and bronze medal.

Klenke grew up in Houston where she won a state championship at St. Agnes Academy and was named the Houston Chronicle All-Greater Houston Private School Player of the Year. She also won state titles in track and field and cross country while in high school. She began her soccer career playing for local club Albion Hurricanes.

(image via Houston Dash)

“I am super excited to begin my professional career in the NWSL with my hometown team at Shell Energy Stadium,” Klenke said. “The Houston Dash has evolved under new leadership, and I am excited to work with and develop under coach Fabrice's guidance. I can’t wait to contribute and help the team build on their strong finish last season. From my first conversations with the club, it was clear there’s a vision for success, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.” 

Klenke has played a number of positions in her career but spent a lot of time as a wingback. With Fabrice Gautrat liking his outside backs to attack, Klenke is a good fit for this Dash system. She can play on both sides and should provide depth behind Avery Patterson and Lisa Boattin.