At Western WA Surf Soccer Club, we’re committed to developing young female athletes and providing them with the support, coaching, and opportunities they need to thrive. One of our standout coaches leading the charge in girls’ soccer is Marissa Villegas. Marissa not only coaches multiple Western WA Surf teams but is also the Co-Owner and Chief Marketing Officer for West Seattle Junction FC. Recently, she launched a women’s pre-professional team called West Seattle Rhodies FC, which will compete in the USL W League starting in the spring of 2025.
The Rhodies will bring a new level of women’s soccer to the Pacific Northwest, with the USL W League rapidly expanding in the region. It’s an exciting time for female players, coaches, and fans across the area, and we sat down with Marissa to discuss her vision for the Rhodies, her commitment to girls’ soccer at Western WA Surf, and why it’s so important for young players to support and watch live women’s games in their communities.
Q&A with Marissa Villegas
Q: What inspired you to launch West Seattle Rhodies FC, and how does it fit into the broader mission of advancing women’s soccer?
A: “The Rhodies are all about creating opportunities for women to excel in soccer at every level—whether that’s as players, coaches, or leaders. This team will give female athletes in the Pacific Northwest a platform to showcase their skills on a national stage and create a pathway for those aiming to reach the next level. We want the Rhodies to be a source of inspiration for young girls and women who aspire to succeed in soccer, and to foster a community where they feel supported and empowered.”
Q: The USL W League has been expanding in the Pacific Northwest. Why is this growth so important, and how does it impact the local soccer community?
A: “The growth of the USL W League is incredibly exciting—it’s helping to establish a stronger presence of women’s soccer in our region. With more teams joining, including the Rhodies, there are more chances for fans to watch high-quality women’s soccer right in their own communities. Having more visibility for women’s soccer inspires young players and shows them that they, too, can pursue soccer at higher levels. It’s vital that girls see strong female athletes and coaches right here in their area.”
Q: How can young players and families support the growth of women’s soccer in the Pacific Northwest?
A: “One of the best ways to support is by attending live games, whether it’s our Rhodies, local colleges, or university teams. Watching high-level women’s soccer in person can be a powerful experience for young players—it allows them to see firsthand the skills, passion, and dedication that go into the game. We’re building a community around the Rhodies that we hope will inspire the next generation of female athletes to chase their dreams and create lasting memories.”
Q: With your coaching role at Western WA Surf, how do you see your work with the Rhodies aligning with the club’s goals for girls’ soccer development?
A: “Western WA Surf and the Rhodies share a common mission: we’re both committed to developing the next generation of female athletes and providing strong role models. As a coach at Surf, I work with girls at all levels, helping them build their skills, confidence, and love for the game. The Rhodies add another layer to that mission by offering an aspirational pathway for these players to aim for. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to contribute to both organizations and see our community’s commitment to growing the game.”
Western WA Surf: A Commitment to Girls’ Soccer
Marissa’s work with the Rhodies aligns perfectly with Western WA Surf’s dedication to the development of its girls’ programs. As a coach of four girls’ teams, Marissa embodies the club’s commitment to creating a supportive environment where young female players can develop their skills, build confidence, and learn from dedicated role models.
At Western WA Surf, we believe that coaches like Marissa are essential to the growth of the game. Her passion for empowering female athletes and advancing women’s soccer is an inspiration to her players and to the entire club. Western WA Surf is honored to support her work both on the field and in the larger community, as she leads the charge in creating more opportunities for women in the game.
As Marissa continues to make waves in the Pacific Northwest, Western WA Surf looks forward to seeing the impact she and the Rhodies will have on the next generation of players, coaches, and fans. Together, we’re building a future where women in soccer can dream bigger, reach higher, and achieve greatness—both in our community and beyond.
Follow the Rhodies: Fans can stay updated on the Rhodies’ journey by following them on Instagram @ws_rhodiesfc and visiting their official website, wsjunctionfc.club/rhodies. The USL W League’s 2025 season kicks off in late spring, and we encourage everyone to come out, support the Rhodies, and be part of this exciting chapter for women’s soccer in the Pacific Northwest.
