WASHINGTON D.C. (Oct. 15, 2026) – The National Women’s Soccer League announced today that Bay FC midfielder Claire Hutton will participate in the 2026 NWSL Skills Challenge, presented by CarMax, as part of the league’s celebration of the 2026 NWSL Championship, presented by Google Pixel. Kicking off at 2:30 p.m. PT at Episcopal High School Friday, Nov. 20, the event will feature two teams composed of NWSL stars competing against each other in a series of exciting skills competitions.
Tickets are on sale now. The event will also be nationally broadcast on CBS and streamed on Paramount+ Saturday, Nov. 28, at 11 a.m. PT. The winning team will be awarded a $35,000 prize courtesy of CarMax to be split among that team’s players. The event will be hosted by a familiar face to Bay FC fans; matchday host Duda Pavão will emcee the festivities.
The event will feature a representative from every club not participating in the NWSL Championship Nov. 20.
2026 NWSL Skills Challenge, presented by CarMax, participating athletes include:
- Katie Atkinson (CHI)
- Kenza Dali (SD)
- Hal Hersfelt (WAS)
- Claire Hutton (BAY)
- Savy King (LA)
- Lo’eau LaBonta (KC)
- Ally Lemos (ORL)
- Carson Pickett (DEN)
- Kat Rader (HOU)
- Lilly Reale (BOS)
- Reyna Reyes (POR)
- Emma Sears (LOU)
- Jaedyn Shaw (GFC)
- Kailen Sheridan (NC)
*Additional participants to be confirmed. Players who are committed to the Skills Challenge but reach the Championship match will not participate in the event*
Descriptions for each skills contest are below.
- Gauntlet: A fast-paced challenge that rewards quick decision-making, technical precision, and confident finishing. Beginning inside a designated starting circle, one attacking player has 60 seconds to create space, navigate defenders, and score on a series of mini goals, each carrying a different point value.
- Breakaway Circuit: Two teams compete head-to-head in a continuous relay that rewards teamwork, technical execution, and finishing under pressure. Beginning with a pass from the First Touch, each athlete must navigate Cutback Course, advance through Nutmeg Gate, and finish with a Closing Shot against the opposing team’s goalkeeper.
- Precision Point: Athletes showcase their finishing ability through a precision-based shooting challenge designed to reward accuracy, placement, and composure. Each team one at a time, targeting scoring zones throughout the goal with each target carrying a different point value based on size and difficulty.
Fans will have the opportunity to meet NWSL Skills Challenge, presented by CarMax, participants following the event. In addition to the Skills Challenge, fans can enjoy food, beverages, and merchandise for purchase, as well as sign making and face painting. The first 1,500 fans will also receive an NWSL Skills Challenge, presented by CarMax, branded coyote stuffed animal. Parking details and complimentary shuttle information will be shared closer to the event.
The 2026 NWSL Championship, presented by Google Pixel, kicks off at 5 p.m. PT Saturday, Nov. 21. The match will air live in primetime on CBS and Paramount+. For more information on the NWSL Championship, or to purchase tickets to the match, visit NWSLSoccer.com/championship.
