The National Women’s Soccer League officially announced on Monday that Sky Blue FC midfielder Raquel Rodriguez has been voted the 2016 NWSL Rookie of the Year.
“We are absolutely delighted for Rocky in being voted as the NWSL Rookie of the Year,” said Christy Holly, Sky Blue FC head coach. “This award is great recognition for all of the hard work she has put forth over the past season. Not only is she a fantastic asset to our organization on the field, she is also a brilliant representative for Sky Blue FC off the field as well. She is a key component in a very strong core of players who will continue bringing this organization forward.”
The Sky Blue selected Rodriguez with the second overall pick in the 2016 NWSL Draft after a major trade with the Portland Thorns. On the season, she logged 1,461 minutes, making 17 starts over 18 appearances. Overall, she registered 22 shots on the year, adding a goal and an assist.
Rodriguez had an amazing year
Being voted as the 2016 NWSL Rookie of the Year continues a brilliant year for Rodriguez. Last summer, she scored the first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup goal for Costa Rica in their opening match against Spain before returning to Penn State University in the fall for her senior season. She then led the Nittany Lions to their first NCAA College Cup title, scoring the game-winning goal in the 1-0 national championship match against Duke University.
Following the season, she was awarded the MAC Hermann Trophy, which is given to the top collegiate soccer player in the nation, and she was later nominated for an ESPY Award as the Top Female College Athlete. She also continued her international success in February, scoring six goals for Costa Rica during the 2016 CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament to finish the tournament level with U.S. international Crystal Dunn as the competition’s top scorer.
Major boost for the Sky Blue
The award is not only major news for Rodriguez but is also brings much-needed publicity to the Sky Blue, which continues to draw minimal crowds despite possessing some of the best young talents in the league. While fellow midfielder Sarah Killion provided more of the offensive threat, 'Rocky' displayed good defensive prowess. At times, she did look like a rookie, missing easy passes, overplaying balls, but as the season wore on she looked much more comfortable and confident. Along with Killion and Taylor Lytle, Christy Holly has the makings of one of the top midfields in the NWSL.
Rodriguez now stands as the first Sky Blue FC player to receive recognition as the NWSL Rookie of the Year. The NWSL awards are voted on by club officials, players, and media who cover the league on a consistent basis.