Wave sign Florida State star to rookie contract

The San Diego Wave signed Florida State defender Mimi Van Zanten to a pro contract on Monday, continuing a trend of inking players from successful college teams to National Women’s Soccer League deals.

Van Zanten won two ACC Tournament titles and two NCAA championships in three seasons at FSU. She started 48 of 57 possible games, scoring five goals and adding 11 assists. She scored against Georgetown in this year’s national semifinal.

Van Zanten’s contract is a two-year deal with options for 2028 and 2029. The 20-year-old is expected to join the club in time for training camp. A native of Elk Grove, Ill., Van Zanten is the sister of Houston Dash midfielder Kiki Van Zanten.

“Mimi is a talented young defender who has already experienced success at the highest levels of the collegiate game, and we’re excited to welcome her to San Diego,” Wave sporting director Camille Ashton said. “Her championship experience and ability to contribute on both sides of the ball make her a strong addition to the Wave and we’re excited to support her development as she takes this next step in her career.”

The NWSL did away with its draft last year, permitting teams to sign collegians as free agents. The Wave signed University of Texas career scoring leader Trinity Byars, UCLA standout Quincy McMahon and University of North Carolina freshman Trinity Armstrong to contracts before the 2025 season.