The CPKC stadium holds some bittersweet memories for Washington Spirit’s Trinity Rodman. After watching her side lose 0-1 to Orlando Pride in the NWSL title showdown, the defeat was particularly tough for Rodman, whose post-match comments reflect on how tough the journey has been. 

“I wasn’t the Trin I wanted to be today,” admitted Rodman. “It’s no secret that I was fighting through back issues pretty much since I got back from the Olympics. Not ideal, but again, that’s no excuse.” Rodman has been vital to the Spirit, as her 8 goals and 6 assists helped them reach playoff spots, a feat that did not look possible at the start of the regular season. 

The last time the 22-year-old played at the CPKC stadium, she was tackled by Temwa Chawinga, during the match against KC Current. The challenge saw Rodman suffer a back injury and was forced to leave the field in a wheelchair. Unfortunately, her redemption arc was spoiled by Barbra Banda. 

The Zambian broke the deadlock for Orlando in the 37th minute, marking her fourth goal of the playoff. While Washington had more of the ball, Seb Hine’s backline put in a solid defensive performance, especially goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse. Soccer icon Marta led the celebrations for her team, with many speculating that this may be her last dance!

While Marta may have secured her first NWSL Championship at 38 years old, after nearly eight years with Orlando Pride, Trinity Rodman at 22, will have plenty more opportunities to chase the title. Having already proven herself as one of the league’s best, she will be a key player for Washington Spirit, alongside the upcoming Croix Bethune who made quite a name for herself. 

Croix Bethune claims NWSL Rookie of the Year

After being drafted third overall, Croix Bethune had a lot of pressure on her shoulders but rose to the challenge in some style. She made an immediate impact and scored three goals in her first five matches, including an extra-time winner at Audi Field. Bethune also went to top the charts for most assists, tying the NWSL single-season record with 10. 

Taking a look back at previous winners, names like Julie Ertz and Naomi Girma come to mind, all of them have risen to the top level. And with the form that Bethune is in, she will likely be following suit. With plenty more seasons, we won’t be surprised if her name is inducted into the Hall of Fame. 

The 23-year-old’s playmaking ability resembles that of a veteran who has been playing in the NWSL for years. Looking ahead to next season, she’s poised to break the assist record, especially with Trinity Romdan playing up front. Already having won Olympic Gold with UWSNT, she will surely be getting more game time under Emma Hayes.