San Diego Wave signs 15-year-old Melanie Barcenas to a three year deal

The youth movement continues in the NWSL as the San Diego Wave sign 15-year-old forward Melanie Barcenas to a three year deal.

Barcenas made history as the youngest signing in NWSL history, surpassing Washington Spirit midfielder Chloe Ricketts by 145 days. Born and raised in the San Diego area, the new Wave player made her way up the US youth ranks before inking this contract.

“We are very happy that Melanie and her family have decided to entrust her hometown club as the place for her to begin her professional career,” said Wave head coach Casey Stoney in a press release.

“The coaches at San Diego Surf have been instrumental in helping her develop as a person and as a player for her entire youth career. We’re excited to maximize her potential through the coming years.”

The 15-year-old was able to join the wave via NWSL’s new under-18 entry mechanism that permits young talent, with the consent of a player/guardian, to be signed to a senior roster spot.

“I’m very excited to sign my first professional contract with my hometown team, San Diego Wave,” said Barcenas in a press release. “I know I am young, but the team and coaching staff have been amazing, and I look forward to learning from them every day as I continue to develop.”

The San Diego Wave start their 2023 NWSL season on March 25th as they take on the Chicago Red Stars.