The 2025 NWSL End-of-Year Awards mark a significant milestone as the league unveils a new format—an inaugural awards show designed to elevate the celebration of player achievements. This event will serve as the unofficial kickoff for NWSL Championship week, commencing on Wednesday.
Transitioning into this new awards format invites excitement and discussion around the finalists. Crafting my voting ballot presented challenges as some deserving candidates didn’t make the final cut, with notable omissions like Portland Thorns midfielder Sam Coffey. Stay tuned as I highlight my Best XI selections featuring several players who had impressive seasons but may not receive top accolades.
This year’s finalists have ignited debates among fans, experts, and commentators alike, observing snubs across various categories. It’s crucial to recognize that every finalist has earned their place through hard work and dedication.
MVP Finalists
- Delphine Cascarino (San Diego Wave FC)
- Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
- Esther González (Gotham FC)
- Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)
- Bia Zaneratto (Kansas City Current)
My Vote: Temwa Chawinga
For me, the decision was clear. Chawinga not only topped the league in goals but is also a two-time Golden Boot winner. In her sophomore season, she has exemplified the qualities that NWSL coaches search for in a forward—active off the ball and relentless in pursuit of goals. Her scoring capability can shift the momentum of a match, but her contributions extend beyond offense; she has shined in defensive scenarios as well, showcasing impressive counter-pressing and ball-tracking skills.
Defender of the Year Finalists
- Jordyn Bugg (Seattle Reign FC)
- Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit)
- Avery Patterson (Houston Dash)
- Izzy Rodriguez (Kansas City Current)
- Kayla Sharples (Kansas City Current)
My Vote: Kayla Sharples
This category is particularly competitive, yet Kayla Sharples stands out as the frontrunner. Although she may split votes with teammate Izzy Rodriguez, her impressive consistency warrants recognition. The season delivered remarkable performances from players like Tara McKeown, who has shown steadfast reliability as the Spirit dealt with extensive roster challenges. Ultimately, Sharples has anchored Kansas City, stepping up even as injury challenges affected her defensive lineup.
Goalkeeper of the Year Finalists
- Lorena (Kansas City Current)
- Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC)
- Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC)
My Vote: Lorena
This was a particularly tough category, as each goalkeeper made compelling cases for themselves. Lorena, however, made an immediate impact in her new league, helping Kansas City secure the highest number of clean sheets (14) and boasting a remarkable seven-game shutout streak. Her adaptability and influence on the pitch made her my choice for Goalkeeper of the Year.
Midfielder of the Year Finalists
- Kenza Dali (San Diego Wave)
- Debinha (Kansas City Current)
- Claire Hutton (Kansas City Current)
- Manaka Matsukubo (North Carolina Courage)
- Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC)
My Vote: Claire Hutton
Every finalist merits recognition, yet the absence of Sam Coffey from this category is notable. While the spotlight has highlighted players like Olivia Moultrie, particularly for her strong second half of the season, I ultimately cast my vote for Hutton. The 19-year-old has displayed remarkable growth and skill, impressively balancing offensive and defensive responsibilities.
Rookie of the Year Finalists
- Maddie Dahlien (Seattle Reign FC)
- Lilly Reale (Gotham FC)
- Riley Tiernan (Angel City FC)
My Vote: Lilly Reale
Lilly Reale has been a revelation in the league, consistently performing at a high level. Featuring in every regular-season match and earning 22 starts, she illustrates the ideal qualities of a fullback—speed in recovery and an eagerness to contribute offensively. Her performances this season are why she deserves Rookie of the Year honors.
Coach of the Year Finalists
- Vlatko Andonovski (Kansas City Current)
- Adrian Gonzalez (Washington Spirit)
- Beverly Yanez (Racing Louisville)
My Vote: Vlatko Andonovski
While all finalists have compelling claims, I chose Andonovski due to his remarkable achievements throughout the regular season. His leadership helped the Current clinch the NWSL Shield well ahead of the playoffs, coupled with multiple team records from fewest goals conceded to longest game-winning streaks. Although a disappointing playoff exit may cloud perceptions, his contributions cannot be discounted.
Best XI
The final selection allows voters to choose only 11 players for an end-of-year Best XI, even though the league recognizes both a first and second-best team. Here are my selections along with some players I believe should be featured on a second-best XI despite the voting limit:
Selected Players: Lorena, Kayla Sharples, Emily Sonnett, Avery Patterson, Izzy Rodriguez, Sam Coffey, Taylor Flint, Claire Hutton, Kenza Dali, Temwa Chawinga, Delphine Cascarino
Suggested Second Best XI: Claudia Dickey, Sophia Huerta, Jordyn Bugg, Tara McKeown, Lilly Reale, Rebeca Bernal, Croix Bethune, Olivia Moultrie, Emma Sears, Manaka Matsukubo, Esther Gonzalez.
