by Tiffany Weimer
Germany
Some interesting news came out of Germany this week when FCR 2001 Duisburg announced they were filing for bankruptcy. Currently, there are two Americans on that team, Ashlyn Harris and Elli Reed. Although Harris was recently allocated to the Washington Spirit of the Nationals Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), she was to finish out her season with Duisburg and join the Spirit in late May.
With this new development, Harris might have an early out from her contract and join the team right away, unless the club can find a way to finish out the season.
Despite the news, FCR 2001 Duisburg is taking part in the German Masters indoor tournament this weekend, featuring all the teams in the Frauen-Bundesliga, including 13 American players.
The tournament is Saturday January 19 (in Germany at 10am) 4 am EST.
Here is the schedule of games and a link to watch live online.
Russia
Former Florida State standout Toni Pressley has recently signed with Ryazan VDV in the Russian Supreme Division. The season starts in March, so Pressley is currently in preseason with the squad.
“This is my first season here and I came because of the folding of the league,” said Pressley. “I’m actually here with one of my best friends who is also Russian so that makes it a bit easier for me.”
“I like it here so far, the staff and the players and our team is pretty good,” she added. We are either second or third in the league thus far and I believe it starts back up mid or late March. Until then we are just training, two a days, and we are taking a trip to Cyprus.”