VANCOUVER, BC (AUGUST 13, 2026) – Vancouver Rise FC announced on Thursday the signing of Jamaican international defender Chantelle Swaby.
“Chantelle brings stability, composure and experience to our backline,” said Rise FC Sporting Director Stephanie Labbé. “Her quiet confidence on the ball, along with her physical presence will be a strong addition to our team, and our defensive unit. I am excited for the fans at Swangard to meet Chantelle and give her a warm welcome to our wonderful club and city.”
Swaby, 28, joins Rise FC from Leicester City W.F.C., where she made 31 appearances across two seasons in the Women’s Super League. The experienced defender was a key part of Leicester City’s campaign last season, topping the club’s charts in blocks and clearances.
The Jamaican international began her professional career in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in 2020, after being drafted by Sky Blue FC. She then tasted silverware in Scotland after moving to Rangers W.F.C. in 2021, winning the Scottish Women’s Premier League with the Blue Belles in an undefeated season.
Prior to joining Leicester City, Swaby moved to France’s top division to play for FC Fleury 91 in 2022. She made 37 appearances in two seasons, scoring once and registering one assist, anchoring the defence as the French side finished in fourth and fifth place respectively, narrowly missing out on European and playoff qualification.
“I’m so excited for this new chapter in my career,” said Swaby on her signing. “I felt like Vancouver Rise FC was the perfect place for this next chapter of my career, and I’m ready to use my experience and talent to fight for the badge and win even more trophies for this club.”
Before starting her professional career, Swaby spent four years at Rutgers University playing for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, starting 46 of her 47 matches played. The Connecticut native registered three assists in her time and made the Academic All-Big Team for all four years.
At the international level, Swaby has been a crucial figure for Jamaica’s senior national team since debuting in 2018. The defender has made 48 appearances for The Reggae Girlz, and helped Jamaica qualify for the 2019 and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments. Swaby went on to play all of Jamaica’s matches at both World Cups, helping Jamaica reach the Round of 16 for their best ever finish at the 2023 edition.
Chantelle Swaby
Pronunciation: Shon-TEL SWAY-bee
Position: Defender
Height: 5-11
Date of Birth: August 6, 1998 in West Hartford, Connecticut, US
Hometown: West Hartford, Connecticut, US
Citizenship: United States / Jamaica
Status: International
Previous Clubs: Leicester City W.F.C. (ENG), FC Fleury 91 (FRA), Rangers W.F.C. (SCO), Gotham FC (USA)