BERKELEY – Former Golden Bear midfielder Kelly Fitzgerald will have a familiar face by her side as she kicks off her professional soccer career in Norway. A tri-captain and Third Team All-Pac-12 selection, Fitzgerald signed with Stabaek Fotball Kvinner, which competes in Norway's top division, the Toppserien, and will be playing alongside Cal teammate Guro Bergsvand, who signed with the club earlier in the year.

"I'm really excited to begin my professional career with Stabaek and to play with my former Cal women's soccer teammate, Guro, again," said Fitzgerald. "Playing soccer at Cal provided me with so many great memories and friendships. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Cal family."

A stalwart for the Bears in the midfield, Fitzgerald appeared in 71 matches during her Cal career, making 59 starts. Fitzgerald served as a tri-captain for the Bears this past season, tallying one goal and three assists while also making considerable contributions to Cal's defense that ranked among the best in the nation. A native of Laguna Niguel, California, Fitzgerald was also a two-time Pac-12 All-Academic honoree and completed her degree in December 2017, majoring in American Studies with a minor in journalism.

"It is thrilling to see Kelly sign with Stabaek," said Cal head coach Neil McGuire. "She is a truly gifted player who has worked so hard to develop her craft. She will be an outstanding professional."

Fitzgerald continues a rich tradition of Golden Bears who have gone on to play professionally, both in the United States and across the globe, including nations such as Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and the Netherlands.

Fitzgerald and Bergsvand both saw action in Stabaek's recent friendly against Danish side Fortuna Hjørring, a final tune-up before kicking off league play on March 31 against Trondheims-Ørn. Stabaek, based just outside of Oslo in Baerum, Norway, has finished in the top-three in the Toppserien table eight of the last nine seasons. More information on the club can be found here.

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