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Jeon Ga-eul signs to play in US women’s soccer league

January 6, 2016
Jeon Ga-eul (7) led S. Korea to the round of 16 at the 2015 Women's World Cup. Jeon celebrates after scoring against Costa Rica on June 13, 2015. (Courtesy of KFA)

Jeon Ga-eul (7) led S. Korea to the round of 16 at the 2015 Women’s World Cup. Jeon celebrates after scoring against Costa Rica on June 13, 2015. (Courtesy of KFA)

The Western New York Flash of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) announced the signing of South Korean midfielder Jeon Ga Eul to celebrate the new year, pending the receipt of her P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC).

Per team and league policy, terms of the contract were not announced, but according to a CNBC report last year, the four-year-old league’s minimum salary in 2015 was $6,842, while the maximum salary was $37,800.

Jeon’s signing, however, is a historical one as she becomes the first South Korean born player in the NWSL.

“Jeon should make an immediate impact with our club, while also providing leadership on the field.  Her ability to get the ball to her teammates’ feet is impressive,” said Flash General Manager Rich Randall. “Her discipline and on-field vision will be a key piece to our success this year.  We are excited for her arrival this March.”

Along with Ji So-yun of Chelsea LFC, Jeon is a mainstay of the South Korean national team, scoring 34 goals in 72 international matches so far.

Her performance as a withdrawn striker raised Korea to reach the round of 16 at the 2015 Women’s World Cup. Playing in all four group matches, and scored a goal against Costa Rica and had an assist against Spain.

Jeon made her debut in 2009 for Suwon FMC and helped the club win the WK-League title in 2010, collecting the MVP trophy along the way.