Wellington Rec FC Women's team in Larne welcomes American goalkeeper from Flagler College, Florida
Wellington Recreation Football Club Women's team has welcomed American collegiate goalkeeper, Madi Narducci.
Originally from Rhode Island, Madi has joined the squad from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida.
She has arrived this summer to train and compete with the WRFC Women’s team in the Northern Ireland Women’s Football Association (NIWFA) league.
Her participation strengthens the developing pipeline between American university soccer and Northern Irish football, while providing valuable international experience for the young goalkeeper.
Kenny Thompson, Chairman of Wellington Recreation Football Club, said: "We are delighted to welcome Madi Narducci to the WRFC Women’s team for the NIWFA season.
"This exchange reflects our commitment to player development and building strong transatlantic football connections. Madi’s presence will benefit our squad both on and off the pitch, and we look forward to seeing her contribute in goal throughout the regular season."
Commenting on the move, Madi said: "I’m really excited to be playing with Wellington Recreation this summer in the NIWFA. The opportunity to compete in a new league and environment is fantastic for my development as a goalkeeper. The team and coaches have been very welcoming, and I’m looking forward to a great season."
Meanwhile, Wellington Rec Women’s team will be heading to Latvia this autumn to take part in a new women’s football tournament, designed to foster international competition, player development, and cultural exchange.
The team are due to take on FK Cēsis – Jules Vernes Women in the Inaugural Four Castles International Invitational, the first edition of which will take place in October 2026 in Cēsis, Latvia.
The tournament will then rotate in 2027 to Larne, with Wellington Rec hosting FK Cēsis as part of a growing international partnership.
The news comes as part of broader efforts to develop Wellington Rec’s Women’s and Girls’ pathway with the launch in early May of the Girls Academy for 3-15 year olds.
The Four Castles International Invitational is backed by Four Castles Sporting Group as the title sponsor.
The Group confirmed that discussions are underway to expand the Invitational to include additional clubs from the United States, including potential participation from Florida-based teams.