As Trinity Rodman and Co. gears up for what could be her and Washington Spirit’s second-ever NWSL title, the 22-year-old couldn’t help but reflect on the journey she has had so far. Rodman, whose 8 goals and 6 assists helped the Spirits reach the playoffs, looks back to 2021, a year in which she celebrated her first title while the league went through some turbulent times. 

“I think less chaos behind the scenes, more calmness, and yeah, not having to worry about all the stuff behind the scenes and just being able to focus on soccer. I think that’s made the biggest difference, and I think that’s why I feel that way going into it for sure.” Rodman told the ‘Attacking Third’. 

The abuse allegations in 2021 rocked the NWSL but since then there have been significant reforms within the league, bringing a sense of stability, which the players can now benefit from. There was a 14-month investigation into the allegations with head coaches for five of the 10 teams being fired by the end of 2021. 

Rodman now faces a tough challenge as her Washington Spirit side has not secured a victory in their last four encounters against Orlando Pride. However, the 22-year-old forward knows what it takes to shine in finals. The last time she played in one, she delivered a game-winning assist, showcasing her clutch moments.

The NWSL will be taking place in the CPKC stadium, Kansas City, where she suffered a back injury earlier this season. Rodman is now among the favorites to win the NWSL MVP of the year and has the golden opportunity to shed tears of joy in the same stadium which holds some bittersweet memories for her. 

Rodman’s bittersweet memories at CPKC stadium persists

In Spirit’s regular season match against KC Current at the stadium, Rodman left the field in a wheelchair, visibly emotional, following a tackle by Temwa Chawinga, this season’s top scorer. And now she had to witness the second-leading top scorer score the lone goal of the match, securing the win for Orlando Pride. 

Barbra Banda, who had 13 goals in the regular season, scored her fourth playoff goal off an over-the-top pass from Angelina. After breaking the deadlock in the 37th minute, Orlando Pride’s backline didn’t let the team down, especially goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse who made five saves. 

Even though Washington Spirit had most of the possession, they couldn’t find a way past Seb Hine’s backline. The win was extra special for soccer legend Marta, who had to wait eight years before securing her and Orlando’s first-ever NWSL title. Will this be the 38-year-old’s final dance? Fans are hoping they get to see more of her magic.