Thorns GK Bixby Reveals News Of Father's Death After Semifinal

PORTLAND, OR —The Portland Thorns season came to an end Sunday with a 2-0 loss to the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women's Soccer League semifinal at Providence Park.

But the result quickly seemed secondary after Thorns starting goalkeeper and Oregon State alumna Bella Bixby revealed on Twitter that her father had died by suicide earlier in the week.

"I don't feel like I owe anyone an explanation, but I do feel like I'm ready to say it. My father died this week by suicide. And I've surprised myself by how strong I've been, but I couldn't hold it anymore," Bixby wrote. "My playing for this city meant so much to him."

Bixby, the 25-year-old Milwaukie native, thanked the fans for their support and pointed out that the Rose City Riveters supporters group had honored Bixby's father during the game by displaying a jersey with the name "Geist" — Bixby's maiden name —and flowers.

The Chicago Red Stars offered their condolences to Bixby on Twitter after the game, tweeting: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your loved ones, Bella."

Bixby played the full 90 minutes Sunday in a contest played before a crowd of 15,832.

Portland outshot Chicago 21-5 in the game. But the Red Stars got a first-half goal from Katie Johnson and a second-half strike from Sarah Woldmoe as they advanced to Saturday's NWSL Championship in Louisville, where they will face the Washington Spirit.

Last Tuesday, Bixby was one of 22 players named to the U.S. Women's National Team training camp roster for a pair of friendlies against Australia on Nov. 26 and Nov. 30. It was Bixby's first call-up with the USWNT.