Marquette University Defender, Clare Shea, Joins Rally Madison FC
2024 Greater Metro Conference Player of the Year is the Newest Team Addition
MADISON, WI: Clare Shea, a decorated Wisconsin soccer champion, will take to the pitch with Rally Madison FC for their inaugural 2026 season. Shea brings success wherever she plays, evidenced by her all-time leading goal-scorer title with Menomonee Falls High School and collegiate division awards during her rookie season with Marquette University.
”Clare Shea brings a tremendous toolset to the Rally Madison FC squad,” said Rally Madison FC Head Coach, Giuliano Oliviero. “She’s exceptionally athletic, highly versatile, dominant in the air, and has the ability to push forward and contribute meaningfully in the attack.”
Shea set the tone for her collegiate career with a phenomenal freshman season in 2025. The rookie defender appeared in all 18 matches, logging 1,609 minutes of playing time. She also tallied two goals – one against Minnesota and another against St. John’s in New York. Shea was named the Big East Defense Player of the Week this past October, as well as the All Big East Honor Roll Player of the Week.
“Clare Shea has made an immediate impact in the college game, starting every game and establishing herself as a commanding presence in Marquette’s backline,” said Rally Madison FC Sporting Director, Liz Lawrence. “Her athleticism and exceptional ball-winning skills, both defensively and offensively, make her a truly great asset to our team.”
Showcasing Shea’s versatility on the pitch, she also had an impressive pre-collegiate career with Menomonee Falls High School, playing primarily as a Forward. Shea holds the program’s title of all-time leading goal-scorer, having racked up 62 goals and 33 assists in just three years. She was named the Greater Metro Conference Player of the Year, United Soccer Coaches Association All-American, and First Team All-State in 2024. She was also part of the United Coaches Association All-Region Team and the Greater Metro Conference’s First Team All-Conference for two consecutive years. On the club level, she competed with SC Wave, winning state titles in both 2020 and 2021.
“I am grateful and beyond excited for the opportunity to play for Rally Madison FC,” said Shea. “Being able to train every day in a high-level environment and compete against top players is something I truly value. I am excited to represent this new team and help set a strong standard for what’s to come. I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together and to continue growing as a player”
Shea’s high versatility and dedication to the sport will bolster Rally Madison FC’s already strong year-one roster. With both her previous success as a major attacking threat and sterling start in her rookie year as a defender, Shea is set to be a major asset to the squad. With over 850 Rally Madison FC season ticket holders already locked in and the technical staff continuing to build a formidable roster, the inaugural season is shaping up to be absolutely incredible. Fans can support the club, purchase official merchandise and procure season tickets at rallymadisonfc.com.
About Rally Madison FC: Rally Madison FC will begin play in May of 2026 in the USL W League, featuring the top pre-professional players in the country. More information on the Club and USL W League can be found at www.rallymadisonfc.com. Purchase your Season Tickets here.
