FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Fort Lauderdale United FC is thrilled to welcome defender Daviana Vaka to the squad as the team makes its final push toward the inaugural USL Super League playoffs. With just four games remaining in the regular season, Vaka’s arrival adds strength and depth to Fort Lauderdale’s playoff ambitions.
“Adding a quality defender at this stage of the season is a key move for our depth and competitiveness,” said Associate Head Coach Ali Rogers. “Daviana had an outstanding collegiate career, and we are confident she’ll make an impact during this critical stretch ”
Vaka arrives in South Florida after a standout collegiate career that began at Brigham Young University (‘19-’22) and concluded at the University of Florida (‘23-’24). Nicknamed the “Swamp Queen,” she made a lasting impression in Gainesville, starting 33 matches over two seasons and logging 2,766 minutes. In 2023, she earned All-SEC First Team honors and was named the Gators’ Defensive Player of the Year, adding two assists to her career stat line.
Daviana is the twin sister of Fort Lauderdale United defender Laveni Vaka, who recently sustained a season-ending knee injury during an away match against Brooklyn FC. Her arrival comes at a crucial time, as the club’s back line has been hit hard by injuries in the second half of the season. In addition to Laveni, defenders Julia Grosso (foot) and Adrienne Jordan (ankle) have also missed time due to injury. Vaka’s presence will be essential for a Fort Lauderdale United side determined to secure a postseason berth with four matches remaining in the regular season.
Back in Action
Fort Lauderdale United will return to the pitch on Friday, May 16, for a road matchup against eighth-seeded Lexington SC. Fort Lauderdale holds the edge in the season series, with wins both at home and on the road in the teams’ previous meetings. Kick-off is set for 6:00 p.m. EST and the match will be streamed on Peacock and available for local viewing on FanDuel Sports Network.
Tickets
Season ticket packages for all home matches, as well as single-game tickets can be purchased here. FTL UTD’s next – and final – regular season home match is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 against Dallas Trinity FC for Fan Appreciation Night. The two sides are evenly matched this season, with one win apiece and a draw in their three meetings.
