"Mana Shim's triumphant return and Gotham FC's journey in the NWSL Challenge Cup"
Mana Shim, who retired from professional soccer in 2018 after blowing the whistle on abuse in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), scored her first goal since 2015 for NJ/NY Gotham FC in the 2023 UKG Challenge Cup. Shim's return to the league after nearly a decade has been a period of finding closure, and she credits Gotham's player-centric front office and coaching staff for instilling confidence in her. She is grateful for the positive changes in the league, including the adoption of the first-ever Collective Bargaining Agreement, increased support and infrastructure, and a more professional game day experience.