Jordan Silkowitz’s Journey to Bay FC’s Starting Goalkeeper

Jordan Silkowitz’s rise to becoming the starting goalkeeper for Bay FC and her debut in international play is quite an interesting story.

Born in Fairfax, Virginia, Silkowitz describes her beginning in soccer as emerging from “the middle of nowhere.” At 25, she was picked 18th overall by the Kansas City Current in the 2023 NWSL Draft, making her the first Iowa State women’s soccer player to achieve this milestone.

During her tenure with the Current, she trained under U.S. Women’s National Team goalie Adrianna Franch and experienced NWSL veteran Kathy Miller. Seeking more playing time and growth, she was loaned to Brisbane Roar in Australia’s A-League in September 2023, continuing her development until her recall by Kansas City ahead of the 2024 season.

However, her time back in the U.S. was brief. In August, Armut Schulte, an Olympic gold medalist, was signed, leading to Silkowitz’s trade to the expansion club Bay FC, in exchange for Kayla Sharples and $15,000. The following month, Bay FC extended her contract through 2026.

Albertin Montoya, Bay FC’s head coach, emphasized how much the team valued Silkowitz’s potential, stating that their technical staff had closely monitored her performances throughout college and professional levels.

“Silkowitz is a player that many of our staff have had the chance to scout and watch,” Montoya shared. “She possesses immense potential and athleticism, alongside a strong desire for self-improvement.”

Despite two seasons in the league, Silkowitz had yet to play in an NWSL game, and she found herself facing a pivotal moment in her career.

“Actually, a year ago, before my junior year, I wanted to quit soccer,” Silkowitz confessed. “I felt vulnerable and like I was on the brink of leaving football for good.”

“I was just falling in love with the sport, and now I’m learning to rediscover that passion.”

As the 2025 NWSL season approached, a significant change took place. Bay FC’s starting goalie, Caitlin Rowland, retired just a month prior, opening up the competition. This preparation and timing paid off, as Silkowitz was named Bay FC’s starting goalkeeper for Opening Day.

“What you do in front of the lights isn’t something you build on,” Silkowitz remarked. “It’s what you’ve developed over countless hours.”

She fully embraced her breakout season. In May, she received her first call-up to the national team at any level, starting as goalkeeper against Germany Under-23s. Later, Bay FC secured her services with a new contract through 2027, including a team option for 2028.

Montoya expressed confidence in Silkowitz’s abilities, saying, “We brought her here because we believed she could be the best goaltender in this league. She has proven that since her first moment on the field with us, and we are excited for the future together.”

Although the previous season was challenging for Bay FC, who finished 13th, they discovered their future star goalkeeper in Silkowitz. She ranked second in the league for penalty kick saves (with a perfect 100%), fifth overall in total saves, and received a league-high 12 nominations for Save of the Week, winning four times.

“Last year was a dream,” Silkowitz reflected. “Still, I take pride in the journey that led to it.”

Her dream culminated with her call-up to the U.S. Women’s National Team senior squad on November 19.

“I might get emotional talking about this,” she admitted. “As a child, I dreamed of this. From the moment I learned about the national team, I knew this was my goal.”

Over a span of four months, Silkowitz received consecutive invitations to USWNT camps.

“It truly feels like a dream, especially having my family by my side,” she said. “It’s not just my name on the jersey; it represents my entire family. It’s deeply significant to me.”

A year ago, she questioned her future in the sport. Now, she stands as Bay FC’s leading goalkeeper and one of the highly-rated goalkeepers in the NWSL, living her childhood dream with the USWNT.

“Someone told me, ‘Enjoy every first time and every small moment,’” Silkowitz said. “Being in the jersey, traveling, and sharing moments with my teammates is invaluable. Each experience holds profound meaning for me and reflects on the people who support me.”

Though her career began off the mainstream track, Jordan Silkowitz has carved her own unique path. The thrilling part? She is just getting started.