Kaleigh Kurtz Brings Durability and Leadership to Denver Summit FC

GLENDALE — Veteran defender Kaleigh Kurtz has built a reputation in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) for her unmatched durability. Holding league records for consecutive regular-season minutes, games, and starts, Kurtz now takes on a new role as the defensive leader for Denver Summit FC during the club’s first NWSL season. Kurtz, 31, earned the title of league “Ironwoman” for four straight seasons from 2022 through 2025 while playing for the North Carolina Courage. The designation is given to players who participate in every minute of their team’s regular-season matches. After signing with Denver Summit FC in November, Kurtz is preparing for the team’s debut match on March 14 against Bay FC in San Jose, California. Following a training session Wednesday at Infinity Park, Kurtz jokingly credited her remarkable consistency to “my genetics.” Although she laughed at the comment, her long-lasting success comes from much more than that.

Kurtz first gained national recognition during her college career at the University of South Carolina. As a senior, she was named the Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year. In 2018, she joined the North Carolina Courage as a non-roster invitee during preseason. Through determination and strong performances, she eventually secured a regular role on the team and went on to play more than 10,000 consecutive minutes without leaving the field. Her work ethic has made a strong impression on her new teammates. Forward Ally Brazier, who grew up in Colorado Springs, described Kurtz as one of the most reliable players on the roster.

“She always brings grit and determination,” Brazier said. “She sets a high standard for herself. You never need to push her because she motivates herself every day. She shows what excellence looks like and expects it from the rest of us.” Denver Summit FC head coach Nick Cushing and general manager Curt Johnson carefully built the roster to meet the team’s needs for its first season. Kurtz’s experience and reliability make her an essential part of that plan. Cushing praised Kurtz for her dedication and commitment to improving her game. “She is extremely devoted to her craft,” Cushing said. “She works hard on the physical aspects of the game and is always looking to learn more. Her ambition and energy stand out. She asks countless questions and challenges me just as much as I challenge her. That’s what great players do.” Kurtz is already familiar with championship success. She helped the North Carolina Courage capture back-to-back NWSL titles in 2018 and 2019. Now she hopes to bring that winning mindset to Denver as the new franchise begins its journey in the league. Kurtz credits several factors for her ability to stay healthy and perform consistently throughout her career.

“My family gave me an incredible body that allows me to train and compete every day,” Kurtz said. “I have to thank my parents for that. But it also comes down to having coaches who believe in you and trust you. I’m grateful they allowed me to hold that role on the field. Our medical staff also spends countless hours working behind the scenes. They do a lot that people don’t see.” Thanks to that support system and her own dedication, Kurtz has built a reputation as one of the most dependable players in the NWSL. As Denver Summit FC prepares for its inaugural season, the team will rely heavily on her leadership and resilience to help build a strong defensive foundation.