KC Current acquire forward Penelope Hocking from Bay FC

Hocking, 26, recorded a team-high 6 goals and 1 assist last season with Bay FC.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 11:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Kansas City Current have acquired forward Penelope Hocking from Bay FC in exchange for $350,000 in intra-league transfer funds. Hocking, 26, recorded a team-high 6 goals and 1 assist in 18 regular-season matches (10 starts) for Bay FC last season. She was previously with the Chicago Red Stars from 2023-2024, scoring 7 goals.

Why it matters

The acquisition of Hocking strengthens the Current's attacking options as they look to build on a successful 2025 season and compete for trophies. Hocking's goal-scoring ability and chance creation skills are expected to bolster the team's offense.

The details

The Current sent $350,000 in intra-league transfer funds to Bay FC to complete the deal for Hocking, who was the No. 7 overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft. Hocking recorded a team-high 6 goals and 1 assist in 18 regular-season matches (10 starts) for Bay FC last season. She previously spent two seasons with the Chicago Red Stars, scoring 7 goals.

  • The trade was completed on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Penelope Hocking

A 26-year-old forward who was acquired by the Kansas City Current from Bay FC.

Ryan Dell

The general manager of the Kansas City Current.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are very excited to welcome Penelope to Kansas City. Penelope's aptitude for scoring goals from anywhere on the field, combined with her ability to create chances for those around her, will only strengthen our attack. Above all, she is a great person and teammate who will positively impact our club on and off the pitch.”

— Ryan Dell, General Manager, Kansas City Current (Team News Release)

“I'm extremely excited to be joining the Kansas City Current. This is a club with high expectations and high standards, and I'm excited to bring my energy, compete every day and help the team win trophies.”

— Penelope Hocking (Team News Release)

What’s next

The Current will look to integrate Hocking into their lineup as they prepare for the upcoming NWSL season, with the goal of her making an immediate impact and helping the team compete for championships.

The takeaway

The acquisition of Penelope Hocking is a strategic move by the Kansas City Current to bolster their attacking options and strengthen their roster as they aim to build on their success and compete for NWSL titles.