Denver Summit FC's Kaleigh Kurtz Aims for Fifth Straight Iron Woman Season

Defender holds NWSL records for consecutive minutes and games played

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:19am

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Kaleigh Kurtz, a defender for Denver Summit FC, is aiming to achieve her fifth consecutive NWSL 'Iron Woman' season, having played every minute of every match for the past four seasons. Kurtz holds league records for consecutive minutes played and consecutive games played, totaling over 12,000 minutes across more than 130 matches in her NWSL career.

Why it matters

Kurtz's consistency and durability as a player provide stability and leadership to the Denver Summit FC backline. Her quest for a fifth straight Iron Woman season is a remarkable feat that will excite the team's fans and showcase the talent and dedication of one of the NWSL's top defenders.

The details

Kurtz's Iron Woman streak began in June 2021, and she has played every minute of every match for Denver Summit FC over the past four seasons. Head Coach Nick Cushing has instilled confidence in Kurtz, recognizing her as a leader on the team and a key part of their plans.

  • Kurtz's Iron Woman streak began in June 2021.
  • Kurtz is aiming to make it a fifth straight Iron Woman season in 2026.

The players

Kaleigh Kurtz

A defender for Denver Summit FC who holds NWSL records for consecutive minutes played and consecutive games played, totaling over 12,000 minutes across more than 130 matches in her career.

Nick Cushing

The head coach of Denver Summit FC, who has instilled confidence in Kurtz and recognized her as a leader on the team.

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What they’re saying

“I've been fortunate enough to do that since June of 2021, I think is when the streak started.”

— Kaleigh Kurtz, Defender

“I think fans can be really excited. It just kind of brings a consistency and a stability when someone on your back line is able to play every minute of every game.”

— Kaleigh Kurtz, Defender

“I'm very happy that he instilled that confidence in me from day one, and he was like, 'No, this is part of your role, this is why we brought you in. We want you to lead the team.'”

— Kaleigh Kurtz, Defender

What’s next

Kurtz will look to continue her Iron Woman streak when the 2026 NWSL season kicks off in the spring.

The takeaway

Kaleigh Kurtz's remarkable durability and consistency as a defender for Denver Summit FC, including her quest for a fifth straight Iron Woman season, exemplify the talent and dedication of top NWSL players and will inspire the team's fans.