THIRTY FOUR WPSL ALUMNAE SELECTED IN 2023 NWSL DRAFT IN PHILADELPHIA

The National Women's Soccer League held its annual draft Thursday night at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia during the United Soccer Coaches Convention. Thirty-four WPSL alumnae received the call to move up to the professional ranks - a league record. Additionally, 25 WPSL teams were represented by the draftees.
 

2023 MAC Hermann Trophy recipient, Michelle Cooper (MotorCity FC) was selected as the No. 2 Overall pick from the Kansas City Current, while seven more WPSL alumnae heard their names called in Round 1 - including 2023 MAC Hermann Trophy finalist, Jenna Nighswonger (MISS KICK FC) and Mexican Women's National Team member, Reyna Reyes (FC Dallas).
 

"It was amazing, but in no way a surprise to see Reyna get drafted at such a high pick last night," Gareth Evans, FC Dallas head coach, said. "We were delighted Reyna and her family had her draft party with us at Toyota Stadium and let us share the special occasion with them."
 

Eleven WPSL All-Conference honorees were among those drafted, including 2022 Desert Conference Offensive Player of the Year - Nicole Douglas (SC del SOL), 3x All-Conference and 2021 Red River South Defensive Player of the Year - Grace Yochum (AHFC Royals), and 2019 Red River North Offensive Player of the Year - Messiah Bright (SouthStar FC).
 

"For a young girl [Grace Yochum] with a dream at six years old at AHFC to getting drafted to play at Chicago Red Stars is just fantastic," Daniel Hill, AHFC Royals head coach, said. "Grace is everything that a top-class player should be on and off the field and is a huge role model for our young players at AHFC and elsewhere. "
 

Since 2018, the WPSL has seen 143 former players get drafted to the NWSL.
 

"I think it also highlights the importance of the WPSL in a player’s development, to get that higher level of competition as they take steps towards the Pro leagues," John Saeger, SouthStar FC club president, said.

Full Draft Recap Below