Spotlight on a Few Rookies

Here's a brief spotlight on six rookies who have stood out thus far, along with notes about the general youth movement in the league through week 9 of the 2024 season.

Croix Bethune, midfielder (Washington Spirit), has already scored four goals, including the game winner in their home opener match and second rookie goal on the road in Houston. A mainstay on the frontline, she is a vital part of the Washington Spirit offense who has also contributed six assists, which has her tied with Sophia Smith for league best through 10 matches played. She was selected with the third pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft. Bethune was selected Rookie of the Month (March/April) earlier this month.

Ally Sentnor, forward (Utah Royals FC), was the No. 1 pick in the draft. She has found the back of the net twice, both times from shots outside the box, and has assisted on two other goals in her 10-match, 890 minutes of rookie-season action.

Savy King, defender (Bay FC), was selected with the second pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft and has appeared in 10 matches as a fullback for Bay FC, assisting in the game-winning goal at home against Seattle Reign FC.

Hal Hershfelt, midfielder (Washington Spirit) was picked with the No. 5 selection in the draft and she posted two goals early in the season. She boasts an 80% passing efficiency in 10 matches played.

Forward Reilyn Turner (Racing Louisville FC) was selected next at No. 6. Turner has been a focal point on offense, especially as a second-half specialist. She has netted two goals and assisted on two others thus far through 9 matches and 416 minutes.

On the other end of that four-round (16 teams) draft process, Madi Curry, defender (Angel City FC) was the 51st pick of the draft by her hometown team and she has been instrumental on the backline along with contributing a goal in her inaugural start.

Here are teams who have seen immediate contributions from others in their rookie campaigns, whether they were drafted or found their way into the league directly from youth programs.

Angel City FC boasts a trio of U-18 talents in Kennedy Fuller, Gisele Thompson, and Casey Phair.

Jameese Joseph (15th pick) and Leilanni Nesbeth (10th pick) have seen significant playing time in the midfield for the Chicago Red Stars.

Kansas City Current's U-18 forward, Alex Pfeiffer, scored in her debut at the club’s home opener and she continues to see consistent playing time.

Orlando Pride midfielder Ally Lemos, selected with the No. 9 pick, has appeared in 8 matches for the league-leading squad.

Forward Emma Sears, drafted with the 28th pick by NJ/NY Gotham FC and subsequently moved to the Racing Louisville FC roster, has scored two goals in her 9 matches played.

Brecken Mozingo, picked at No. 4 by her hometown Utah Royals FC, has appeared in 9 matches and has 358 minutes under her rookie belt.