Goalkeeper Casey Murphy joins Reign FC

Reign FC announced today the signing of former Rutgers University goalkeeper Casey Murphy, who has spent the last two years playing for Montpellier HSC in Division 1 Féminine in France.

With Lydia Williams soon to depart for the World Cup with Australia, the Reign were in need of a second goalkeeper to complement Michelle Betos, and Murphy became available following the end of the French season.

“We’re thrilled to add Casey to the club,” Reign FC head coach Vlatko Andonovski said. “Any time you can add a player of her caliber, it’s a good day. We know that she’ll be able to help us this season.”

The 23-year-old started all 22 matches for La Paillade this season, finishing with 12 wins, 7 losses and 3 draws, and earned 2017-18 Goalkeeper of the Year and Best XI honors from the French Football Federation. Montpellier finished in third place this year, behind perennial powerhouses Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain.

Murphy was originally drafted 13th overall by Sky Blue FC in the 2018 NWSL College Draft, but opted instead to sign in France.

“Playing in France for the past two seasons was a tremendous learning experience both personally and professionally,” said Murphy in a team release. “The next step in achieving my goals was to come home and play in the NWSL. I am very thankful to Montpellier HSC, Reign FC and my agent for working together to make this possible. I am excited to join such a talented team and look forward to working hard and contributing towards their goal of winning championships.”

In her college career, Murphy set a Rutgers University record with 45 clean sheets, second-best all time in the Big Ten. She was a 2017 Mac Hermann Trophy semifinalist and two-time All Big-Ten First Team selection. She has also received numerous call-ups to US Youth National Teams, including six appearances during the 2016 U-20 Women’s World Cup, and has been invited to one senior US Women’s National Team camp, but has not yet been capped at that level.