Shannon Woeller first player to sign with Vancouver Rise [Video]

Shannon Woeller grew up sitting in the stands at Swangard Stadium, cheering on her hometown Vancouver Whitecaps.

In a few short months, the Canadian defender will be the one playing on a local field, inspiring the next generation of soccer stars.

The Vancouver Rise announced Woeller as their first player signing in club history Monday.

Returning to Vancouver and playing in the newly created Northern Super League “means everything” to the 34-year-old athlete.

“It’s so special. This is so special for me to come home, be with my friends and my family, and also have the opportunity to help grow Canadian women’s football,” she said.

Woeller is an intelligent, proven leader who’ll set the tone for the squad, said Sinead King, Rise’s president.

“It’s her professionalism, her leadership, her athleticism, but also her homegrown talent,” she said.

The Rise announced last month that Anja Heiner-Moller will be the team’s head …