San Diego Wave has gained not gained the love and respect of our city in their first year of existence, but also award voters from the National Women's Soccer League.
Last week, Wave FC went into Portland to play against the Thorns for a place in the NWSL final, but unfortunately lost the match in the final seconds of the semifinal in the Northwest.
A semifinal visit in their inaugural season as an expansion team is being rewarded in many ways.
San Diego Wave defender Naomi Girma is named the 2022 NWSL Rookie of the Year, as well as the Defender of the Year, taking home two massive achievements for the 22-year-old. Girma also becomes the first rookie in NWSL history to take home two individual awards in their first year.
Wave goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan was also named Goalkeeper of the Year after a standout individual season protecting the back of the net.
Wave coach Casey Stoney has also been named Coach of the Year.
Alex Morgan, USWNT soccer legend, has won the Golden Boot after putting up an historic season representing the San Diego Wave.
These three rewarded players have all been selected into the NWSL's Best XI of the year.
“My overriding emotion is huge pride in the team, the players, the club, and what we’ve been able to do in a short space of time,” head coach Casey Stoney said after the loss against Portland Thorns in the semifinals. “Now we need to use this feeling to fuel us to get better."
Midfielder Taylor Kornieck says she's looking forward for what's to come after wrapping up an incredible inaugural collective season.
“I think we’re just getting started,” said midfielder Taylor Kornieck after the semis. “I, with all my heart, wish we could have gone to that final. I can’t wait for February when we get back out there because we have something so special here and I’m so fortunate to be a part of it.”
