WEST SEATTLE, Wash. — On a beautiful Mother’s Day afternoon in sunny West Seattle, West Seattle Rhodies FC opened the 2026 USL W League season with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over the Tacoma Galaxy at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex.
After a scoreless first half, the Rhodies broke through in the 53rd minute for the club’s first goal of the 2026 season. Addison Stendera (#20) initiated the attack with a lofted ball forward to Kunie Hirai (#9), who fought through pressure and drove toward the left side of the penalty area.
From a difficult angle, Hirai delivered a perfectly weighted cross to the back post where Mariah Biegaj (#16) rose to head home the first goal of the season and the match winner.
The Rhodies defended the lead with composure to secure all three points and a dominant start to the 2026 campaign.
Backed by a lively Mother’s Day crowd, fans enjoyed the Club’s new beverage garden, roses at the gate, new food choices, and a beautiful rendition of the national anthem performed by Shaina Shepherd. Rhodies FC delivered a memorable performance in front of their home fans to top it all off.
Head Coach Lyndsey Patterson, now in her second season leading the Rhodies, has much to be proud of as her squad opened the year with a disciplined and determined performance. Rhodies FC returns to action on Friday, May 15, when the team travels to Maple Valley, Washington to face Bigfoot FC.
The Rhodies return home on Sunday, May 17, to host Snohomish United at 2:00 PM at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex. The beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverage garden opens at 1:00 PM, with food vendors and pre-match festivities beginning at the same time.
For home game tickets and schedule information, visit West Seattle Rhodies FC.
