The National Women’s Soccer League is once again showcasing the impact of rookies this season, much like in previous years. It’s really impressive to see how freshmen players are stepping up right away.
This time, while there were plenty of strong first-year candidates, a few have really distinguished themselves in ways that are hard to overlook.
Here are three players who are definitely in the running for the Rookie of the Year award.
Amelia “Mimi” Van Zanten (San Diego Wave, DF)
Could we see another defender take home the award for two years straight? It’s entirely possible, as Mimi Van Zanten has proven to be among the best in her position already.
When compared to her peers, she has truly stood out:
- First in tackles (84) – Fifth overall in NWSL
- Second in interceptions (44) – Ninth overall in NWSL
- Third in total duels won (151) – Eighth overall in NWSL
- Third in successful dribbles (25)
- Fourth in accurate final third passes (259)
- Fifth in defensive contributions per 90 minutes
- Seventh in fouls drawn
Van Zanten has managed to shine in various roles—whether it’s on the defensive line, as a playmaker, or even as an attacker. Every moment she spends on the field is productive.
Kat Rader (Houston Dash, FW)
Rader is part of a young and promising team at Houston Dash that should definitely be on the radar moving forward. She’s already won Rookie of the Month honors twice this season, in both May and August.
With 10 goals under her belt, she’s only one away from tying a rookie record set by Diana Ordóñez.
Here’s why she’s proven to be such a challenge for opposing defenses:
- 10 goals – tied for 10th most in NWSL
- 5.0 expected assists (xA) – tied for 10th most in NWSL
Rader is versatile, showcasing her skills as a forward or attacking midfielder. Whether scoring or playmaking, she has been exceptional.
Lia Godfrey (San Diego Wave, MF)
Godfrey has had an outstanding breakout season and even signed a lucrative contract extension through 2029.
She’s provided the San Diego Wave with exactly what they’ve needed offensively:
- Six goals – Second most for rookies
- Six assists – Tied for sixth most in NWSL, leading rookies
- 12 goal contributions – Third among attacking midfielders, leading rookies
- 4.9 xG generated – Seventh most for attacking midfielders, second for rookies
- 27.5 accurate passes per 90 – Seventh most for attacking midfielders
- 37 chances created – Third most for attacking midfielders, 18th overall in NWSL
- 4.0 xA – Third most for attacking midfielders, second for rookies
Alongside Trinity Byars, Godfrey has led the Wave’s attack all season, being the top in both goals and assists. Before her rookie season began, she was seen as one of the most ready-to-go players available, and she’s absolutely exceeded those expectations.
With consistent appearances on the U.S. U23 team already, it seems likely she’ll soon be called up to the senior national team.
Prediction: Mimi Van Zanten to win
What Van Zanten has demonstrated as a defender really highlights the incredible young talent at San Diego, especially under coach Jonas Eidevall, along with players like Godfrey, Melanie Barcenas, and others.
Her ability to neutralize top opposing attackers all season has been impressive. The combination of her skill set and statistical backing makes a strong case. Moreover, she’s just as effective in an attacking role. Following in the footsteps of Lilly Reale from last season, it seems the NWSL has unearthed a remarkable all-around defender for years to come.
