Following the 2022 season, two players from the Asheville City SC Women’s side are headed overseas to pursue professional opportunities. Midfielders Alyssa Frazier and Gillian Oyos have both signed contracts, taking their talents to the next level. 

Frazier, a Samford alum, signed her first pro contract with Swedish club Rik Karlskoga after playing in all 12 of the Asheville City 2022 games and finishing with 2 goals and 4 assists.

“I really enjoyed my time in Asheville. Everyone was so supportive from the fans, to the coaches, to the team, the host families, the owners, the people running the gym and just the community as a whole,” said Frazier. “The dedication from the club to support player growth was great. There was a big commitment to the little details from so many people that everything ran smoothly. I’m so thankful for my time in Asheville and for all the different people I was able to meet there. It was a great environment to be in.”

Oyos, a UNC Asheville alum, has signed with Newcastle United Women of England. The elite midfielder shared her skills with Asheville City for three seasons (2019, 2021, 2022).

 “My time in Asheville was a period of my life that I will always treasure. Every summer playing for Asheville City pushed me to become a better player and person. I am so grateful for the coaches I met through the club, as well as the players, and all who have made what I’m doing today possible,” said Oyos. “The environment this club creates is unmatched and the relationships players are able to form with the team, coaches and fans is something you can’t find anywhere else. I’m so proud to have had the privilege to play for Asheville City, and I’m so excited for the future of the club.”

“We are absolutely thrilled to see Alyssa and Gil head off to Europe to play at the next level. It comes at no surprise though as this was both of their plans coming into Asheville City this summer. They knew that the USL W League and ACSC would prepare them for success at the next level which is a big reason why they played for us this summer,” said Coach Jimena Rojas. “Both players are tremendously dedicated to their trade and were at the top of our list when it comes to their technical abilities. We loved having them in “Blue” this summer and are looking forward to seeing them shine across the pond!” 

To date, six former Asheville City women’s players have gone on to play pro – Jennifer Cudjoe (Gotham FC), Parker Roberts (Orlando Pride), Abbie Brown (Leeds United), Louise Griffiths (Sunderland FC), Alyssa Frizer (Rik Karlskoga) and Gillian Oyos (Newcastle United).