FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (March 25, 2026) – Fort Lauderdale United FC is thrilled to announce the signing of defender Molly McDougal as the club pushes toward the Gainbridge Super League Playoffs in the 2025/26 campaign, pending league and federation approval.
“Molly gives us important depth and versatility in the defensive unit,” said Aly Hassan, General Manager of Fort Lauderdale United FC. “She’s composed on the ball, disciplined defensively, and capable of impacting the game in multiple ways, which is exactly what we’re looking for at this stage of the season.”
A strong defender with a well-rounded skillset, McDougal brings high-level collegiate experience from the SEC and Big Ten, adding depth and versatility to the Fort Lauderdale back line. With the ability to win back possession through tackles and interceptions while also contributing in the attack with incisive passing, McDougal adds balance and reliability as the club looks to build momentum down the stretch.
A native of Prosper, Texas, McDougal began her collegiate career in the SEC at Mississippi State, where she appeared in 35 matches with 22 starts, logging 2,059 minutes over two seasons in Starkville. McDougal transferred to the University of Southern California for her final two seasons, making an immediate impact with 37 appearances and 21 starts across 2,480 minutes. The defender helped the Trojans capture the 2024 Big Ten title in her first season in Los Angeles and scored her lone collegiate goal during her breakout senior campaign in 2025. Across four seasons with the Bulldogs and Trojans, the dominant defender totaled 72 appearances, 43 starts and 4,539 minutes on the pitch in her college career.
Following her collegiate career, McDougal made the jump to the professional level, spending preseason with San Diego Wave FC before going on trial with the Portland Thorns. The center back started and logged 75 minutes in the Thorns’ final preseason match on March 6 against CF Monterrey Femenil ahead of the 2026 NWSL season before making her way to Fort Lauderdale.
A versatile defender in the middle of the back line, McDougal will look to provide additional stability and consistency as the club searches for momentum with eight matches remaining in the Gainbridge Super League campaign.
Tickets
Fort Lauderdale will take on DC Power when it returns to Beyond Bancard Field on Monday, April 6 for a special edition of Monday Night Futbol. You can purchase tickets HERE! Playoff hopes are on the line, and Fort Lauderdale United FC needs you with us! The Playoff Push Package is officially on sale, giving fans access to all 4 remaining home matches as the club fights for a spot in the Gainbridge Super League postseason. Be there for every duel, every counterattack, and every pivotal moment at Beyond Bancard Field. Secure your Playoff Push Package HERE!
