Zephyr

Brooklyn, New York – Spokane Zephyr FC opened their road trip this week with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Brooklyn FC, keeping their playoff hopes alive in the USL Super League.

It was a competitive match between two playoff contenders: Spokane Zephyr FC, currently ranked fourth in the league standings, and Brooklyn FC, who sit just behind in fifth place. Zephyr FC has tallied 20 goals this season, including 12 during the spring campaign.

Brooklyn FC struck early, netting two goals in the first half and putting significant offensive pressure on Spokane. However, the momentum shifted in the second half following a red card issued to Brooklyn defender Tori Hansen—only the second red card handed out in the USL Super League this season. With the advantage, Spokane pushed back hard.

Head Coach Jo Johnson reflected on the match:

“We didn’t start the way we needed to. The first 45 minutes did not represent who we are as a team—too many turnovers, loose balls, and poor challenges. But I am incredibly proud of the response in the second half.”

Sydney Cummings sparked the comeback, scoring a goal early in the second half off an assist from Emina Ekić.

Cummings shared her take on this matches’ performance:

“We’re disappointed to not come away with the win, but we’re proud of the way we were able to bounce back and get the point. We’ll look at the performance and build on it to get 3 points in DC.”

Later in the match, Ally Cook scored her fifth goal of the season for Zephyr FC.

“I’m proud of our team for fighting back in the second half and believing that we could get back in the game.” Said Cook.

Coach Johnson added:

“They (Zephyr FC) fought for each other and found a way to get something out of the game. At this point in the season, everyone is battling for something, and we have to bring the right mindset and execute for all 90 minutes.”

Spokane Zephyr FC continues their road trip with a match against DC Power FC on Tuesday, May 13. Kickoff is at 4:00 PM PT and can be streamed live on Peacock.

Fans can also catch Zephyr FC’s final home match of their inaugural season at ONE Spokane Stadium on Saturday, May 31, when they face Fort Lauderdale United FC in a crucial playoff push. Kickoff is at 6:00 PM PT.

For tickets and more information, visit https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets/

Spokane, WA — Aequus Sports, LLC announced today that Jo Johnson, the inaugural head coach of Spokane Zephyr FC, will step down at the conclusion of the club’s first season in the USL Super League. Johnson is returning to her hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, to prioritize her young family and continue her coaching career at the collegiate level. 

Coach Johnson played a pivotal role in launching Zephyr FC, leading the club through its debut season with unmatched dedication, professionalism, and vision. Under her leadership, the team has established a competitive foundation, and a strong cultural identity built on unity and excellence. 

“It’s been an extraordinary journey launching this club with such a committed group of players, staff, and fans,” said Coach Jo Johnson. “While the decision to leave wasn’t easy, it’s the right time for me to return home and refocus on family. That said, I’m fully committed to finishing what we started — and we intend to win the league before I return to Tulsa.” 

Coach Johnson will remain with the club through its playoff campaign, continuing to lead Zephyr FC with the same drive that has defined her tenure. 

“We are grateful for everything Coach Johnson has brought to Spokane Zephyr FC — her leadership, her vision, and her belief in what this club can be,” said Katie Harnetiaux, Co-Owner and President of Spokane Zephyr FC. “She’s helped lay a foundation that will support this club for years to come. Her impact will be felt long after the final whistle of this season.” 

“From day one, Coach Johnson challenged us to believe in ourselves, in each other, and in the potential of this club,” added Taylor Aylmer, Zephyr FC captain. “She’s been more than a coach — she’s been a mentor and a motivator. We’re sad to see her depart the club, but we support her decision and are very thankful for the foundation she helped build in Spokane. We’re going to give everything we’ve got to send her out as a champion. 

“Coach Johnson was the right servant leader to launch this club and set the foundation for a strong and exciting future,” said Gareth Smith, Sporting Department Consultant for Aequus Sports, LLC. “Her commitment to player development and her ability to build culture are unmatched. While we’re sad to see her go, we’re thankful for her impact and legacy — and we know she’s not done yet.” 

Fan Celebration Planned 

Zephyr FC will celebrate Coach Johnson’s contributions during the club’s final home match on May 31 at ONE Spokane Stadium. Fans are encouraged to attend and show appreciation for her tremendous impact on and off the pitch. 

For tickets to the Zephyr FC match on May 31, please visit: https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets/

Spokane, Wash. — Spokane Zephyr FC lit up their home turf with a commanding 2-0 clean sheet victory over Lexington SC, propelling the team into third place in the USL Super League standings.

From the opening whistle, Zephyr FC came out strong. Forward Ally Cook wasted no time, firing a shot from outside the box in the first minute. Although the attempt was blocked by Lexington SC, it set a high-intensity tone for the match.

Both teams scrambled to strike first, but it was Zephyr FC who broke through in the 11th minute. A foul inside the box by Lexington SC gave Emina Ekić a clear opportunity from the penalty spot. She seamlessly placed the ball into the bottom left corner to secure a 1-0 lead.

The remainder of the first half saw promising efforts from both teams, though none found the net. In the 37th minute, Cook unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box that narrowly sailed over the crossbar. Just a minute later, forward McKenzie Weinert followed with a left-footed strike from distance that missed just wide.

Possession remained evenly split in a fiercely contested first half. Lexington SC worked hard to equalize but struggled to hit the target, and the score stood at 1-0 at halftime.

Zephyr FC came into the second half determined to double their lead—and did just that in the 50th minute. Cook redirected a one-touch finish into the net off a well-placed cross from Katie Murray, extending the lead to 2-0.

Head Coach for Spokane Zephyr FC, Jo Johnson, praised her players for their vision and decision-making on the field.

“I love having players that can see spaces, solve problems, and adjust on the fly,” said Johnson. “We don’t get timeouts; we only get halftime—so we need thinkers on the field.”

Lexington SC had a close call in the 79th minute when a shot found the back of the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside, keeping the score at 2-0.

Zephyr FC nearly added a third in the 88th minute when Wayny Balata sent a short through ball to Sophie Braun in the box. Braun went one-on-one with the Lexington SC goalkeeper, but her shot was blocked.

The score held at 2-0 until the final whistle, marking Zephyr FC’s second consecutive win following their victory over Tampa Bay Sun FC.

Defender Alyssa Bourgeois highlighted the impact of the defensive line in preserving the clean sheet.

“We knew Lexington likes to get their crosses off, so backline and in-box defending was huge for us,” said Bourgeois. “I think we did our job today—so much credit to Sydney, Sarah, and Haley. Absolute lockdown defenders.”

Ally Cook is focused and optimistic heading into the final stretch of the season, while emphasizing the importance of a step-by-step approach.

“We don’t want to leave it up to anybody else. We want to control our future,” said Cook. “We need to win the next three games—plain and simple. You don’t look ahead. You don’t look at other teams. It’s just: who’s next, and how are we going to win?”

Coach Johnson echoed that sentiment, reflecting on the team’s momentum and what lies ahead.

“We’ve had a great run, we’ve had a great push,” Johnson stated. “We’ve still got three more games to finish it out. We control our destiny, so we just keep taking care of who’s in front of us, keep knocking them down, then we’re in that playoff hunt.”

Zephyr FC’s next home match is Saturday, May 31, against Fort Lauderdale United FC at 6 PM PT. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets.

Spokane, WASH – In a high-energy clash at home, Spokane Zephyr FC handed Tampa Bay Sun FC a 3-2 defeat, breaking their three-game winning streak and thrilling a packed crowd. The match delivered intensity from start to finish, coming down to the final whistle.

Tampa Bay Sun FC came out firing, registering a shot off the upper left goalpost within the opening seconds. Their early aggression set the tone, but Zephyr FC quickly adjusted and responded with grit and resilience.

Head Coach Jo Johnson acknowledged her team’s slow start but praised their composure and determination.

“We didn’t play well in the first 15 minutes, but we didn’t get down on ourselves or lose our focus,” Johnson said. “We figured out how to handle their pressure, and our players stayed prepared.”

In the 14th minute, Emina Ekić delivered a perfectly placed corner into open space outside the left post, where Taylor Aylmer executed a stunning overhead finish to put Spokane on the board.

Zephyr FC doubled their lead in the 25th minute with a brilliant sequence between Ekić and McKenzie Weinert. Ekić slipped a through ball to Weinert inside the box, and Weinert calmly tucked it past the keeper to make the score 2-0.

Tampa Bay Sun FC wasted no time answering back. Just a minute later, Tampa Bay Sun FC capitalized on a defensive gap and slotted a strike into the net, cutting Zephyr FC’s lead to 2-1.

Defender Sarah Clark delivered a critical moment in the 42nd minute, clearing a dangerous ball from the box to prevent Tampa Bay from equalizing before halftime. Zephyr FC’s backline held strong under pressure to preserve their advantage going into the break.

Clark, who tallied seven clearances on the night, credited the defense’s chemistry and quick communication.

“Their front five or six are really good, so we had to track runs, communicate fast, and trust each other — and I think we executed that really well,” Clark said.

In the 68th minute, Spokane extended their lead thanks to another clinical finish from Weinert. After a sharp combination play between Wayny Balata and Katie Murray, Murray threaded a through ball to Weinert inside the box. Weinert made no mistake, securing her second goal of the match and putting Zephyr FC ahead 3-1.

Post-game, Weinert emphasized her gratitude for her teammates and coaches.

“It’s been nice to finally put some balls in the back of the net, but credit to my teammates and coaches for always believing in me,” said Weinert.

Balata, who recently returned from a stint on the bench, played a key role in the buildup to Weinert’s second goal.

“I just wanted to come in and help close it out, and I feel like I did that today,” said Balata.

Tampa Bay Sun FC kept the pressure on and pulled one back in the 78th minute via a penalty kick, narrowing the scoreline to 3-2.

Coach Johnson expressed confidence in her team’s playoff ambitions following the gritty performance.

“Good teams find ways to win. Playoff teams find ways to win. Even today wasn’t our best game, but we found a way to close it out.”With this victory, Zephyr FC climbs to fifth place in the USL Super League standings.

They return to home turf on May 3 at 6 p.m., hosting eighth-place Lexington SC. Tickets are available now at https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets/.

Charlotte, NC – Spokane Zephyr FC saw its four-match shutout streak come to an end in a demanding match against first-place Carolina Ascent FC. Despite a relentless effort, Zephyr FC was defeated 3-0 on Saturday, April 19 on the road at American Legion Memorial Stadium.

Both teams entered the match riding four-game shutout streaks, setting the stage for a competitive battle. Carolina Ascent FC struck first in the 16th minute, when Eli Hutchinson received a pass just inside the box and drove the ball into the goal.

Hutchinson doubled the lead for Carolina Ascent FC in the 68th minute. A combination between Addisyn Merrick and Mia Corbin led to a shot on goal that deflected toward Hutchinson, who recovered the ball and sent it into the back of the net.

Carolina Ascent FC’s final goal came in the 82nd minute off a corner kick. Sydney Sterner’s initial header was blocked, but Mia Corbin reacted promptly to secure the rebound and extend the lead to 3-0.

Carolina Ascent FC utilized high pressure and sharp off-the-ball movement, proving to be a dangerous opponent for Spokane. Zephyr FC attempted to attack the defense through line-breaking passes but was mostly blocked by Carolina Ascent FC’s defensive shape, which shut down any advancements.

Defender Sarah Clark expressed her frustration with the setback but still has hope for the team’s development.

“Disappointing result, but we’re turning our focus to next weekend. Playoffs remain in sight for us, and it’s our goal to still be playing in June.”

Defender Haley Thomas shares the same focus on the crucial games ahead that will determine the team’s advancement in the league.

“It’s not the result we were looking for, but after a long three-game week, I’m proud of the effort our team showed today,” said Thomas. “We’re excited to be back in front of our home crowd and continue the push to make the playoffs.”

Following the loss, head coach Jo Johnson reflected on Zephyr FC’s performance and credited Carolina Ascent FC’s tactical play.

“We weren’t sharp enough in our execution today, on either side of the ball,” stated Johnson. “Credit to Carolina — they are a quality side in strong form and a tough team to beat, especially on the road.”

Coach Johnson continued:

“We will take the lessons from this one, grow from it, and shift our focus to preparing for Tampa.”

Zephyr FC will face third-place Tampa Bay Sun FC at home on Saturday, April 26. For tickets to the upcoming home match, visit: https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets

Lexington, KY – Spokane Zephyr FC secured a 3-0 victory over Lexington SC on Wednesday, April 16, at Lexington Stadium. The match marked another thrilling win for Zephyr FC, who have remained undefeated since March 6.

“Securing three points tonight was important as we continue to build momentum. The performance may not have been perfect at times, but the team found a way to get the result we needed.” Stated Head Coach Jo Johnson following the end of the match.

Spokane Zephyr FC found early success within the first six minutes, thanks to a goal from defender Sydney Cummings. The play began with a corner kick delivered by Emina Ekić, who sent the ball into the box. Cummings timed her run perfectly and headed the ball just past the goal line to ignite Zephyr’s early dominance.

Shortly after, Zephyr FC struck again in the 13th minute. Alyssa Bourgeois surged down the right side, cut the ball back, and delivered a precise pass to Emina Ekić outside the box. Without hesitation, Ekić unleashed a stunning strike into the back of the net, doubling the lead.

Zephyr FC continued their momentum into the second half, adding a third goal in the 49th minute. Ally Cook battled through defenders inside the box and found Ekić, who calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to complete her brace.

Ekić had an outstanding performance, finishing the night with two goals and one assist.

“Great team win tonight. We capitalized on our chances and defended well in our final third. Great three points and shut out!” said midfielder Emina Ekić

Alyssa Bourgeois was also a standout, displaying grit and explosive speed that consistently created attacking opportunities. Bourgeois reflects on the match against Lexington SC and looks forward to the coming match, stating:

“So proud of this team for getting a win on the road and another shut out. Despite getting the result, I think we still could’ve had a better performance. Ultimately, super happy to get the points and we’re prepared to do what we need to get ready for another tough game on the road.”

On the defensive end, goalkeeper Hope Hisey delivered a strong performance to maintain the clean sheet. Her crucial saves kept Lexington SC off the scoreboard and extended Zephyr FC’s clean sheet streak to four consecutive matches.

“We’re consistently finding ways to win and putting together strong results. Now we need to focus on recovery and preparation for a big match against Carolina,” said Head Coach Jo Johnson.

Spokane Zephyr FC will continue on the road to face off against Carolina Ascent FC on Saturday, April 19 at 4:30 p.m. PT.

The team returns home on April 26 to host Tampa Bay Sun FC at 2 p.m. PT.

For tickets to the upcoming home match, visit: https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets

Spokane, WASH.– Spokane Zephyr FC earned a hard-fought 3-0 victory against Dallas Trinity FC on Saturday, April 12. Despite a scoreless first half, Zephyr FC brought the heat and energy in the second half to seal the win.

The first goal was punched in by forward Ally Cook from a seamless pass by forward McKenzie Weinert. The goal sparked momentum for Zephyr FC, which continued to create opportunities for more goals thereafter.

Just four minutes later, Zephyr FC struck again. In the 58th minute, a short corner kick was delivered, and defender Julianne Vallerand drove an overhead ball towards the box. Defender Sydney Cummings got behind the ball and volleyed it into the back of the net.

Zephyr FC locked in the win with one more goal in the 84th minute by midfielder Katie Murray. The ball was driven down the line by Alyssa Bourgeois, where Murray was able to finish the play with a goal.

The energy the team brought in the second half was an exciting turn that had fans roaring. Zephyr FC now holds a record of 7-7-7 (W/L/D), while Dallas Trinity FC moves to a record of 10-6-6 (W/L/D).

When asked about the first goal of the match, Ally Cook was pleased to have had the chance to finish such a seamless opportunity.

“For me as a forward, that’s like a dream. I love it. Just a cross on the ball, and it’s just like, go get it,” said Cook. “So, for me, that’s what I love. It was nice—we haven’t really scored that way, and it’s a little switch-up from what we’ve been doing.”

Head coach Jo Johnson reflected on the last five matches and reflected about the team’s recent success.

“We just constantly talk about stacking weeks,” said Johnson. “We have a four-game series against everyone in the league, and that was our mentality going into it—to win the series, and now we did.”

Johnson also praised the team’s perseverance, regardless of the score.

“It doesn’t matter what’s happening—whether we’re down a goal, up two, whatever—we’re just going to continue to lean into the process and keep rolling.”

Sydney Cummings commented on how supportive the team has been of one another’s successes on and off the pitch, stating:

“What’s been so great this spring is how much we’re celebrating each other when we score—you’d never know we were up 3-0 with how we celebrated Katie’s goal. That shows how much we’re growing as a team.”

Katie Murray echoed the sentiment and shared her thoughts on the team’s growth throughout the spring.

“It just shows that our team is resilient. In the fall, we were high and low, but in the spring, you can see the growth in composure.”

Spokane Zephyr FC will be on the road this next week taking on Lexington SC on Wednesday, April 16 and facing off against Carolina Ascent FC on Saturday, April 19. 

The next Zephyr FC home match takes place on Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m. against Tampa Bay Sun FC.For tickets to this match, please visit: https://www.uslspokane.com/zephyr-fc-tickets/

Spokane, WA-. Spokane Zephyr FC played a well earned match on Thursday, earning a 1-0 win against Brooklyn FC at ONE Spokane Stadium. 

Zephyr FC (6-7-7) has won three of their last five matches and are only two points behind Tampa Bay Sun FC for fifth place in USL Super League standings as they chase a playoff spot in their inaugural season. 

Zephyr FC head coach Jo Johnson has been proud of the team’s ability to compete with top competition. 

“We’ve known that we can compete with anybody in the league,” said Johnson. “It’s just getting everybody else to see that, too,” continued Johnson. 

Spokane created great offensive opportunities in the first half but could not capitalize. McKenzie Weinert had a clean look in the 22nd minute, the shot bounced off the top of the goalpost. Emina Ekić had Zephyr’s next scoring opportunity in the 34th minute and hit off the goalpost rendering the shot unsuccessful.  

Zephyr goalkeeper Hope Hisey had an incredible first half, saving multiple shots from Brooklyn FC (9-7-6), including an acrobatic save off a shot on goal by Brooklyn forward Luana Grabias. 

Hisey spoke of the team’s confidence rising throughout the season. 

“I think you see the confidence rise every single week,” said Hisey. “I think that winning is a habit, and I think we’ve finally found that habit,” continued Hisey. 

Spokane Zephyr FC started the second half strong, with forward McKenzie Weinert scoring her first goal of the season in the 51st minute to give Zephyr FC a 1-0 lead they never relinquished. Brooklyn FC had multiple opportunities in the second half, including corner kicks in the 74th and 77th minute that were well defended by Spokane Zephyr. 

Weinert talked about the team’s success during this Spring season.

“I think the entire Spring season, our team has shown up for every game and we are getting results,” said Weinert. “I think we’re just showing people we’re not someone you can just walk all over,” continued Weinert. 

Defender Reese Tappan and midfielder Wayny Balata made their first starts of the season and put on a phenomenal show throughout the match for Zephyr FC. 

Spokane Zephyr FC improved to 6-7-7 following Thursday’s win. 

Zephyr FC will host Dallas Trinity FC on Saturday, April 12 at ONE Spokane Stadium.  

This match can be streamed nationally on Peacock+ and locally through KHQ. 
For tickets and more information about Spokane Zephyr FC, visit Zephyr FC Tickets

 Spokane, Wash.- Spokane Zephyr FC looked destined for heartbreak after conceding a late equalizer, but a dramatic stoppage-time goal flipped the script and secured a thrilling 2-1 win over Tampa Sun FC at Riverfront Stadium. 

Zephyr FC (5-7-6) remains in sixth place, while Tampa Sun FC (6-5-8) holds on to fifth. However, only five points separate the two sides in the standings as the playoff race tightens. 

“What a performance from the team today, from the first whistle to the last,” said Zephyr FC Head Coach Jo Johnson after the win. “I always say, ‘It takes what it takes’ to win games, and our players embodied that tonight. It wasn’t always pretty, but we did what was necessary to secure all three points.” 

Despite a scoreless first half, both teams had quality chances to take the lead. In the 23rd minute, an errant pass from Zephyr FC goalkeeper Hope Hisey left an open net for Tampa—until Sarah Clark made a miraculous goal-line clearance to keep the visitors off the board. 

Coach Johnson highlighted Clark’s game-saving play: “Sarah Clark’s selfless goal-line save and Ally’s courageous late game-winning finish were defining moments. It took all 90 minutes, and we did it together as a team. I couldn’t be prouder of the group.” 

Zephyr FC nearly scored in the 44th minute when a flying header was expertly saved and cleared by Tampa’s defense. By halftime, Spokane had tallied eight shots to Tampa’s four, but both defenses held firm. 

The deadlock was finally broken in the 61st minute when Zephyr FC captain, Taylor Aylmer looped a shot over the out-of-position Tampa goalkeeper. It looked like her effort might be enough to seal a gritty defensive win.

Tampa Bay Sun FC wasn’t finished. In the 89th minute, they converted a free kick opportunity, slotting home the equalizer and the home crowd went wild. With just three minutes of stoppage time remaining, Spokane seemed destined to settle for a draw. 

In the dying moments, a perfectly weighted lob found Cook, who split two defenders and stretched to get a clean strike on goal—sending the ball past the keeper and sending Zephyr FC fans into jubilation. The late heroics secured Spokane’s second consecutive victory, their first back-to-back wins of the season. 

“I was so proud of our team fighting for all 90-plus minutes,” Cook said after the match. “I knew we were going to be disappointed if we ended in a tie, so it felt so good to get the goal for the team.” 

With the win, Spokane Zephyr FC closes the gap to just seven points from a playoff spot, with ten games remaining on the schedule. 

Captain Taylor Aylmer praised her team’s effort: “That was a total team performance and a huge road win. Really proud of everyone for sticking together and finding a way to walk away with three points.” 

Spokane Zephyr FC looks to continue their winning streak on Saturday, March 22, when they take on Fort Lauderdale United FC in Florida. Catch all the action live on Peacock+.