Freels to sit out Sky Blue FC 2016 season

Sky Blue FC midfielder Katy Freels announced on Twitter Feb. 5 that she would be sitting out of the upcoming National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season.

"After much thought and prayer with my family, I have decided not to return to SBFC for the 2016 season," Freels said in a statement she released via Twitter.

Freels, a Homewood, Ala. native, cited the extensive amount of time spent away from her husband as the reason behind her decision.

"The emotional toll this took on us both this past season was immense," Freels said.

Freels has been an integral piece of Sky Blue FC’s attack from midfield, starting 54 matches and registering 11 goals with 12 assists in her three seasons with the team.

"We have been very fortunate to have such a talented player here at Sky Blue FC and giving us her full dedication," head coach Christy Holly said in a statement released by the team.

A graduate of Auburn University and a Hermann Trophy semifinalist in 2010, Freels was a first-round draft pick in the 2013 NWSL expansion draft. Prior to being drafted by Sky Blue FC, Freels played for the Western New York Flash of the WPSL Elite, helping the team win the league championship in 2012.

Although Freels will definitely be sitting out this season, the wording of both her statement and that released by Sky Blue FC seem to suggest a possible return for future seasons.