The Philadelphia Independence have been keeping themselves busy, re-signing defenders Leigh Ann Robinson and Estelle Johnson this past Monday. Both players were key starters of the powerhouse backline last year, helping the Independence post a 1.0 GSA along with seven shutouts.
Last season, Robinson started in 19 of Philadelphia's games, notching two assists in her first season of play for the team. Robinson attended the University of San Diego, scoring 15 career goals as well as being named to the West Coast Conference First Team in both her junior and senior year.
Johnson had a fine season last year as well, earning herself a starting position on Philadelphia's backline. She would then go on to score her first career goal in May against the Atlanta Beat. A former player for Kansas University, Johnson was picked up by the Independence after the Los Angeles Sol disbanded, making a total 13 appearances for Philadelphia in 2010.
Robinson and Johnson now make a total of four defenders re-signed by the Independence in 2012, joining 2011 WPS Best XI members Kia McNeill and Jen Buczkowsk.