AFC Toronto Signs Amanda West On Loan From Houston Dash

With its inaugural Northern Super League game right around the corner, AFC Toronto is still in the thick of signing players.

This week, the club has announced the signing of forward Amanda West on loan from the NWSL side Houston Dash, where new teammates Croix Soto and Shaina Ashouri also once played.

West, who is Swedish-Canadian and was born in Sundsvall but raised in Burlington, joins AFC Toronto after having spent the 2024 season playing in the United States after being selected 36th overall in the NWSL Draft from the University of Pittsburg.

Her college career was history making: her talent in front of the goal in Division I of the NCAA caught the interest of the Dash, making her the first-ever Panthers player to be drafted to the NWSL.

“Turning professional was always a goal of mine, so I’m thankful for Houston’s trust and their assistance in helping me develop my skills to the calibre required in the professional game,” said West on her career. “After sharing the pitch with elite players who played at the World Cup and the Olympics, I’m confident I can make an impact at AFC Toronto in this exciting new chapter.”

Amanda is the university program’s all-time leader in goals with 50, points (131) and game-winning goals (18).

A product of the Burlington Soccer Club, she helped the Bayhawks win back-to-back Ontario Cups (2017 and 2018). She also represented Team Ontario.

West has also earned a call to the Canadian Women’s National Team in 2021.

“Amanda is another exciting attacking addition to our roster,” added AFC Toronto’s Sporting Director. “She is a player who possesses great pace, is direct in 1v1 situations, and has the ability to score goals. Most importantly, Amanda expressed a strong desire to return to Toronto and play her part in launching this league. We are delighted to welcome her home!”

“I’m proud to be one of many Canadian players who can continue their careers close to their families and stepping onto BMO Field in a few weeks will be surreal. I feel fortunate to be part of this historic moment for professional women’s soccer in Canada, and I am excited to help AFC Toronto build its legacy. I can’t wait to get started,” added West upon signing for the club.

AFC Toronto, alongside West and the rest of the first-ever squad, will be hitting the pitch at BMO Field for the club’s inaugural match against the Montreal Roses on April 19.