Mitts returns, joining Independence

Reach into your closet and dust off that old Charge jersey. The poster player is back.

The Philadelphia Independence of Women's Professional Soccer acquired Heather Mitts yesterday in a signing that returns the defender to the city where she started her WUSA career - as a member of the now-defunct Charge from 2001 to 2003.

"It's where I began my professional career and most likely where I will end it," Mitts said in a statement. "I've been impressed with the organization and its plans for the team."

Mitts, 31, played for the Boston Breakers last year after the WPS national team allocation in 2008. She became a free agent Sept. 30.

She has spent most of the decade playing for the women's national team, including winning Olympic gold in Athens in 2004 and Beijing last year. This year, she became the 25th player in U.S. history to earn 100 caps.

After the Cincinnati native came to the Charge from the University of Florida in 2001, she started all 51 games in three years, led her team to the playoffs in her first two years, and became an all-star in 2003.

Independence general manager Terry Foley said Mitts will be instrumental in building her program and reaching out to the Philadelphia community.

"Heather's value as a player and team ambassador will be an incredible asset to our organization," Foley said in a statement.

"She has nearly a decade of national team experience, a connection with the Philadelphia communities, and is fully committed to making the Independence the best team in the league."

The Independence begin their inaugural season in the spring.

"I'm thrilled by the depth of players already acquired and look forward to playing in front of the passionate Philly fans once again," Mitts said.