Fort Lauderdale United FC announced today that the club and forward Nia Christopher have mutually agreed to part ways, marking the departure of one of the few remaining “Originals” from the club’s founding season.
Christopher, 24, leaves South Florida as one of just five players to have appeared on both the 2024-25 inaugural opening day roster and the current 2025-26 Gainbridge Super League squad. Her departure follows a trend of roster evolution under head coach Ali Rogers as the club pushes for a playoff spot in the second half of the season.
A Look Back: From Towson to the Pros
A standout at Towson University, where she became the program’s second all-time leading goal scorer and a two-time All-CAA First Team selection, Christopher signed with Fort Lauderdale in May 2024.
She quickly carved out a role as a reliable rotational piece. In the club’s second-ever match on September 6, 2024, she earned her first professional start against Carolina Ascent FC. Shortly after, on September 22, she recorded a pivotal assist in a 3-1 victory over Lexington SC.
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Christopher concludes her tenure in Fort Lauderdale with several notable milestones:
15 total appearances across two seasons.
One of only 16 players in club history to record an assist.
An impressive 75.4% passing accuracy during her rookie campaign.
20 duels won and 5 shots on target in 263 total minutes.
Roster in Transition
The timing of the mutual termination allows the Bermuda international to seek consistent starting minutes elsewhere, while providing Fort Lauderdale with additional roster flexibility.
The club has been active in the January window, recently adding defender Abi Hugh and loaning goalkeeper McKinley Crone from the Orlando Pride. Furthermore, the club’s youth movement is in full swing, with Academy products Daniela Todd and Dakota Harrell making their professional debuts just last week against Lexington SC. We also understand that Stella Nyamekye will rejoin the club on loan from Gotham FC of NWSL as early as tomorrow night.
Club Statement
In a statement, the club expressed its gratitude for the forward’s time in South Florida:
“Fort Lauderdale United FC thanks Nia for her contributions and professionalism during her time with the club and wishes her the best in her future career.”Fort Lauderdale United FC (4-5-6, 18 PTS) returns to Beyond Bancard Field this Saturday, February 7, to take on Dallas Trinity FC as they continue their “Playoff Push.”
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