LEESBURG, Va. - Aerial Chavarin '20, the Yale soccer All-American midfielder who was drafted last winter by the Chicago Red Stars, has been signed by the National Women's Soccer League team and is preparing to play in the NWSL Fall Series against Washington.
 
The Red Stars and the Spirit play at noon today at Segra Field in a contest airing live on twitch. It is Chicago's first game, while Washington is 0-1 in the Fall Series. Chavarin's first home game with the Red Stars will be on Sept. 20 against Sky Blue FC at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Ill.
 
"Being a part of the Red Stars has been an amazing experience," said former two-sport athlete at Yale. "I have learned so much from players, coaches, and staff. Playing alongside veterans, national team players, and even other rookies has helped my game develop in a way that I never could have imagined. This experience, playing professional soccer, is more than a dream come true." 
 
Chavarin's pro debut was delayed by an injury, but she wasn't going to rush things and jeopardize her first impression.
 
"When I missed the Challenge Cup, it was difficult, because I really wanted to play. I appreciate the Chicago Red Stars coaching and medical staff because they cared about my hamstring recovery and did not force me to play, even after I tried to convince them to let me play. I went home to Oakland and focused on resting/rehabilitating my hamstring with my physical therapist. On top of that, I had the opportunity to spend time with my family, connect with my teammates and coaches and friends from Yale (via Zoom), and get mentally prepared to play again by breaking down the game tape of the Red Stars. Because of that time, I feel great and am ready to continue developing."

Chavarin was just Yale's third All-American in program history as well as the second ever National Women's Soccer League Draft selection, while earning Academic All-Ivy League honors and serving on the leadership board of the Athletes in Action (AIA).
 
The three-time All-Ivy League selection accomplished something a Yalie had not done in nearly 15 years when she was recognized by the United Soccer Coaches as a Second-Team All-American. Additionally, she earned 2019 Ivy Defensive Player of the Year honors, her second major award from the league after unanimously earning Rookie of the Year in 2016.