The NWSL is stepping into a fresh chapter with its first-ever year-end awards show, marking a significant upgrade in the event’s ambiance. Scheduled to launch during Championship Week on Wednesday, this ceremony promises to celebrate the league’s standout performers.
Navigating the finalist selections has proven challenging, particularly with notable omissions like Portland Thorns midfielder Sam Coffey, whose name will still feature in my best eleven. The absence of certain expected nominees has ignited discussions among the NWSL community, scrutinizing potential snubbed players across all categories. Nevertheless, the presence of the finalists highlights their well-deserved recognition.
Finalists Overview
MVP Finalists:
- Delphine Cascarino (San Diego Wave FC)
- Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
- Esther Gonzalez (Gotham FC)
- Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)
- Bea Zanerat (Kansas City)
My Vote: Temwa Chawinga
Chawinga’s performance was outstanding, leading the league in goals and securing back-to-back Golden Boots. Her balance of offensive prowess and defensive effort has made her a vital asset for Kansas City.
Defender of the Year Finalists:
- Jordyn Bug (Seattle Rain FC)
- Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit)
- Avery Patterson (Houston Dash)
- Izzy Rodriguez (Kansas City)
- Kayla Sharples (Kansas City)
My Vote: Kayla Sharples
Sharples has established herself as a cornerstone for Kansas City’s defense. Despite injuries among her teammates, her consistency has been key to the team’s success.
Goalkeeper of the Year Finalists:
- Lorena (Kansas City)
- Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC)
- Ann Katrin Berger (Gotham FC)
My Vote: Lorena
Lorena immediately made an impact, leading the league in clean sheets, which underscores her importance in Kansas City’s defensive strategy.
Midfielder of the Year Finalists:
- Kayla Dali (San Diego Wave)
- Debinha (Kansas City)
- Claire Hutton (Kansas City)
- Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)
- Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC)
My Vote: Claire Hutton
Hutton has shown remarkable growth in her second year, demonstrating skill and poise that rivals veteran players.
Rookie of the Year Finalists:
- Maddie Darian (Seattle Reign FC)
- Lily Reale (Gotham FC)
- Riley Tiernan (Angel City FC)
My Vote: Lily Reale
Starting 22 games in her rookie season, Reale consistently performed well and embodied the qualities desired in a full-back.
Coach of the Year Finalists:
- Vlatko Andonovsky (Kansas City Current)
- Adrian Gonzalez (Washington Spirit)
- Beverly Yanez (Racing Louisville)
My Vote: Vlatko Andonovsky
Andonovsky’s impressive record during the regular season was notable, and while postseason results were disappointing, they don’t overshadow the achievements of the regular season.
Best Eleven
While only 11 players can secure spots in the best eleven, many deserving candidates exist. The players I selected include Lorena, Kayla Sharples, Emily Sonnette, and others. Alternates deserving recognition are Claudia Dickey, Sofia Huerta, and Manaka Matsukubo.
Fan Take:
This inaugural year-end awards show is a pivotal moment for NWSL fans, as it elevates the visibility of the league and its talent. Such recognition could enhance the sport’s profile and draw more attention to women’s soccer, inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike.
