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Former Hawkeye, NWSL Chicago Stars Sam Cary Angel signs with women-founded IDA Sports

On3 imageby: Kyle Huesmann19 hours agoHuesmannKyle
Former Hawkeyes Sam Cary signed with women-founded IDA Sports. (Photo by Chicago Stars)
Former Hawkeyes Sam Cary signed with women-founded IDA Sports. (Photo by Chicago Stars)

While the Iowa Soccer team eyes another Sweet Sixteen appearance at the NCAA Tournament, one of the program’s trailblazers is making waves at the pro level. Former Hawkeye and NWSL Chicago Stars defender Sam Cary Angel signed her first individual brand deal with women-founded and women-run cleat company, IDA Sports.

“IDA is a brand that genuinely understands the modern women’s soccer player, not just what we wear on the field, but who we are off it. Their mission to empower women in the game really aligns with what I believe in,” said Angel in response to a request for comment from HawkeyeReport. “I’ve always wanted to work with companies that are creating real change and giving back to the women’s game, and IDA does exactly that through innovation, inclusivity, and authenticity. They’re not just following trends; they’re leading with purpose”

The connection with IDA Sports goes back a few years to when Sam was an intern with Girls Soccer Network. She managed social media, wrote editorials and created branded content for several GSN partners, including IDA Sports, while she also co-hosted the GSN college soccer podcast with former Michigan State forward Jordyn Wickes. After creating content for IDA a few years back, she has now signed a sponsorship deal with them.

“Signing an individual brand deal with IDA is really special to me because it represents more than just a partnership. As a player who’s worked hard to get to this point, it feels meaningful to partner with a brand that values that journey and wants to help amplify it. It’s a reminder that every step, every challenge, and every win can open doors for the next generation”

“I want this partnership to be about impact and connection. Of course, I’m excited to wear their products, but more than that, I want to help inspire the next generation of players to chase their dreams with confidence. If this collaboration can help more girls feel seen, supported, and powerful in their own path, then that’s a win for me”

A St Charles, Missouri native, Sam Cary Angel played five years of soccer at Iowa, helping the Hawkeyes to a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances. She made 97 appearances in her career, with 96 starts, totaling 8,322 minutes. Cary was a Second Team All-American in her final year and become one of four players in program history to earn United Soccer Coaches First Team All-North Region honors.

She became the first Hawkeye selected in the NWSL Draft, picked 48th by Racing Louisville FC. Instead, she opted to sign with Damallsvenskan club IFK Norrköping, appearing 38 matches with three goals scored in the top league in Sweden. Back in June, Cary Angel signed a two-year contract with the NWSL Chicago Stars.

About IDA Sports (from IDA)

In a world where women athletes are accustomed to wearing shoes designed for the male body, IDA rejects the “shrink it and pink it” method and instead has built a shoe that is designed for female biomechanics leading to comfort, competition and the goal of injury reduction.

IDA Sports prioritizes high performance and comfortable footwear for athletes who have traditionally been an afterthought. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an elite athlete, IDA Sports believes you should have greater choice and access to the best equipment when you step onto the field. Structurally, IDA Sports cleats are designed to accommodate the nuances of the female athlete’s foot. Aesthetically, they’re designed with inclusivity in mind. For more information, or to try the products, visit the IDA website here.

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