In 2025, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is witnessing a profound transformation fueled by a younger generation of players making significant impacts on the field. With a growing trend toward youth, nearly 10% of total minutes played in the regular season have come from players aged 22 and under. This shift has propelled discussions about potential awards and recognitions for young talent within the league. One idea gaining traction is the establishment of a “Best Young Player” award, mirroring a similar accolade already present in Major League Soccer (MLS).
As of now, the NWSL recognizes six individual awards at the end of each season: Most Valuable Player, Defender of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, Midfielder of the Year, and the Golden Boot. However, players under the age of 22 stand out as the league’s future stars. Making note of their contributions, here’s a breakdown of standout under-22 players who could be contenders for a hypothetical “Best Young Player” award in the 2025 season.
1. Manaka (Midfielder, North Carolina Courage)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026)
In her second year with the Courage, Manaka has solidified her status as a formidable midfielder, playing 1,681 minutes and making 19 starts in 21 appearances. With six goals and four assists to her name, she leads the NWSL in goal-creating actions, showcasing her tremendous playmaking ability. Her stellar performance earned her a spot on the Best XI in both May and June.
2. Kelsey Armstrong (Defender, San Diego Wave FC)
Remaining Contract: 2 years (thru 2027)
Armstrong has emerged as a critical player for the Wave, having played 1,458 minutes in 20 matches. As one of the few 17-year-olds in NWSL, she earned recognition through her strong defensive skills, which include an impressive 81.8% successful dribble rate and 88.4% passing accuracy. Not only has she contributed vital defensive stats, but she also found the net once while contributing two assists.
3. Claire Hutton (Midfielder, Kansas City Current)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026)
Hutton boasts an impressive sophomore season with 1,479 minutes played, making 18 starts in 21 matches. Known for her tenacity, she has achieved a 78.5% passing accuracy and contributed to her team’s defensive efforts with 27 interceptions and 37 tackles. Recognized for her all-around skill set, she is an asset to the Current.
4. Megan Bugg (Defender, Seattle Reign FC)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026)
Bugg’s transition to the Reign has proven fruitful. With 1,701 minutes played, she has made a notable impact on the team’s defense while also contributing offensively, scoring impressive goals, including one that won the goal of the week. Her defensive stats include 106 clearances and 40 interceptions.
5. Olivia Moultrie (Midfielder, Portland Thorns FC)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026)
The 19-year-old Moultrie has made headlines by breaking records for the most regular goals scored by a teenager, netting 14 goals just before her 20th birthday. This season, she has scored four goals and provided a crucial assist. Her dominance on the field is evident as she leads the league in key passes.
6. Yazmeen Ryan (Forward, San Diego Wave FC)
Remaining Contract: 2 years (thru 2027)
Ryan has proven to be a dynamic threat on the offensive front, contributing valuable minutes and scoring goals. Her stats include three goals and three assists, showcasing her growth as a young forward.
7. Riley Jackson (Midfielder, North Carolina Courage)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026)
Jackson has become a pillar in the Courage’s midfield, showcasing increased responsibility with 1,520 minutes played. Her impressive efforts include two goals and significant contributions to the team’s play style.
8. Ally Sentnor (Forward, Kansas City Current)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026)
Sentnor’s journey this season saw her trade to a more competitive team, and she has continued to shine. After scoring multiple goals throughout her time with the Current, she is known for her versatility and ability to find the net.
9. Autumn Dahlien (Forward, Seattle Reign FC)
Remaining Contract: 2 years (thru 2027)
Dahlien’s contributions have been crucial as she ranks third in the league for carries into the penalty area and seventh for progressive passes. Her performance, with three goals and three assists, illustrates her emergence as a key player.
10. Ascanio (Midfielder, unspecified team)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026)
Ascanio has demonstrated her increasing role in the team’s midfield, netting significant goals and posting remarkable passing accuracy.
11. Tordin (Forward, Portland Thorns FC)
Remaining Contract: 1 year (thru 2026 with a player option in 2027)
Tordin’s adaptability has seen him take on a leading role due to numerous injuries on the team. Despite playing only 750 minutes, he has managed to score four goals this season.
12. Shinomi Koyama (Midfielder, North Carolina Courage)
Remaining Contract: 2 years (thru 2027)
Koyama offers a mix of defensive skills and attacking contributions with one goal and one assist in 1,001 minutes played. Her steady passing accuracy reinforces the Courage midfield.
The Impact of Young Talent on the NWSL
The presence of these younger players underscores a crucial shift in the league towards investing in youth talent. Given that many of these athletes are succeeding on a platform that grants them opportunities to play in high-stakes environments, the potential for a dedicated award to recognize them not only offers validation but also encourages the league’s marketing opportunities.
This burgeoning trend toward youth engagement could help inspire the next generation of players, encouraging young athletes across the country to aspire to reach the pinnacle of women’s soccer.
The introduction of a “Best Young Player” award could serve as a significant motivator for these rising stars and propel women’s soccer forward. Just as the MLS has recognized its young talents, the NWSL stands at the cusp of embracing similar accolades, fostering a more dynamic and youth-focused league while celebrating emerging talent. Overall, such an award would be a fitting acknowledgment of the growing influence and contributions of players under the age of 22 in the NWSL.
In conclusion, the future of the NWSL resonates not only in its established stars but in the powerful performances of youth. It’s evident that the impact these players are making goes beyond statistics and accolades, shaping the league’s narrative and the landscape of women’s soccer for years to come. The case for an official “Best Young Player” award isn’t just a recognition; it’s a commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent while celebrating their current accomplishments.
