NWSL star Tess Boade reflects on her experience at Duke, talks partnership with Invisalign

Tess Boade has had her share of success during her time in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), and it’s safe to say her time at Duke played a big role in that. On3 recently spoke to the 26-year-old, and she said playing for the Blue Devils was an experience she will never forget.

“I had the most incredible time at Duke,” Boade told On3. “I think Duke women’s soccer is a highly touted college program. We’ve had incredible coaches and incredible people that have come through that program. And I owe a lot to that university just in terms of on the field for sure. I learned a lot. I grew a ton as a player.”

Boade added, “I think, off the field, Duke was also an incredible place for me. I learned so much just about how to be a confident individual, how to engage with a lot of different industries. I’m really grateful to Duke, and how it prepared me for everything.”

Tess Boade, who currently plays for NWSL’s Bay FC, played for Duke from 2017-2021. During her final year with the Blue Devils, Boade was named to the All-ACC First Team after recording eight goals, five assists and 21 points. Her play on the field helped Duke reach the NCAA Tournament in each of her five seasons.

While Duke women’s soccer has had its share of success, fans of college sports know the school for its basketball teams. The men’s and women’s squads have reached the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, and Boade is confident both teams can make a run to the championship.

Tess Boade shows support for Duke basketball and Invisalign

“I’m locked in on the Blue Devils in both the men’s and the women’s brackets,” she said. “Got my Duke shirts. I’ve been annoyingly wearing around the facilities every day. Yeah, it’s really fun this time of year, because, you know, we’ve got a few people who went to some pretty good basketball schools like UConn, like a few others. It’s really exciting to have some good banter now. I think it’s pretty likely both teams make it to the final 4. They both look really good.

Along with her support for Duke and helping Bay FC get off to a strong start to the 2025 season, Tess Boade and Bay FC have partnered with Invisalign to make sure they have their best smile. “As pro athletes, we’re always looking for the best doctors, the best recoveries, best treatment plans,” Boade said. So you know, nothing is different about that when we’re talking about our smile. So I think Invisalign Aligners was a really easy choice for us.

“They’re just a brand that’s backed 25 years of research, 18 million clients, a brand we can trust. “We’re super excited about that. They’re also a brand that invests in women’s sports. They’re really excited about the growth in the women’s game. And that’s just a company that we want to partner with someone who’s investing and celebrating all the female athletes around the world.”