The Denver Summit: A Chaotic Delight in the NWSL
There’s something undeniably captivating about watching a team that refuses to play it safe. The Denver Summit, the NWSL’s latest expansion darling, is exactly that—a chaotic whirlwind of goals, blunders, and sheer unpredictability. Personally, I think this is what makes them so refreshing in a league where consistency often reigns supreme. While their results might not scream success just yet, they’ve mastered the art of keeping fans (and neutrals like me) on the edge of their seats.
The Chaos Factor: Why It Matters
What makes the Summit particularly fascinating is their ability to turn every match into a rollercoaster. Take their inaugural game against Bay FC—a loss, yes, but one that included three goals and a red card. Or their 3-2 defeat to Boston Legacy, where they surrendered a lead in stoppage time. From my perspective, these aren’t just losses; they’re statements. They’re saying, We’re here to play, not to blend in.
One thing that immediately stands out is how Denver’s inconsistency mirrors the NWSL’s broader identity. This league thrives on unpredictability, and the Summit embodies that spirit. What many people don’t realize is that expansion teams often struggle to find their footing, but Denver has already carved out a unique identity—they’re the team you tune in to for entertainment, not just results.
A Roster Built for Drama
If you take a step back and think about it, Denver’s roster is a recipe for high-octane soccer. They’ve got Janine Sonis scoring braces, Yazmeen Ryan delivering assists, and a backline anchored by the experienced Kaleigh Kurtz. But what’s truly intriguing is their height advantage. According to American Soccer Analysis, they’re the tallest team in the NWSL, averaging 5-foot-7. This raises a deeper question: Does size matter in soccer?
In Denver’s case, it does—but not always in the way you’d expect. Their aerial dominance is undeniable, but it also comes with a certain clumsiness. They’re strong, yet they give up silly goals. They string together beautiful passing sequences, only to rely too heavily on goalkeeper Abby Smith to bail them out. A detail that I find especially interesting is how their physicality contrasts with their tactical naivety. It’s like watching a team of giants still learning how to walk.
The Entertainment vs. Success Debate
Here’s where things get tricky. Denver leads the league in goals per 90 minutes (1.6), yet they’re far from playoff contenders. This raises a provocative question: Is entertainment enough? In my opinion, it is—at least for now. The NWSL doesn’t need every team to be a powerhouse; it needs teams that bring something unique to the table. Denver’s unpredictability fills a void in a league that can sometimes feel too calculated.
What this really suggests is that success in soccer isn’t just about winning. It’s about leaving an impression. Denver has already done that. Their matches are must-watch TV, not because of their results, but because of their style. They’re the embodiment of fun, and in a sport that often prioritizes pragmatism, that’s a breath of fresh air.
The Future: Can Chaos Become Consistency?
Looking ahead, Denver’s trajectory is anyone’s guess. The arrival of Lindsey Heaps from Lyon could bring much-needed stability, but will it come at the cost of their chaotic charm? Personally, I hope not. What makes the Summit so special is their willingness to take risks, even if it means losing. If they can find a balance between unpredictability and discipline, they could become a force to be reckoned with.
But here’s the thing: Even if they don’t, they’ve already won me over. In a league where expansion teams often fade into the background, Denver has made themselves impossible to ignore. They’re not just a team; they’re an experience.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Chaos
If there’s one takeaway from Denver’s debut season, it’s this: Soccer doesn’t always need to be polished to be enjoyable. The Summit’s flaws are what make them fascinating. They’re a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable teams are the ones that refuse to play by the rules.
So, here’s to the Denver Summit—may they continue to score goals, concede goals, and keep us all guessing. Because in a league as unpredictable as the NWSL, they’re exactly what we need.
