Washington Spirit midfielder Croix Bethune has achieved a remarkable feat in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) by becoming the first player ever to earn the NWSL Rookie of the Month award for three consecutive months. Bethune's outstanding performance has garnered her this prestigious recognition, highlighting her exceptional talent and impact on the field.
In addition to her Rookie of the Month accolades, Bethune was also named to the NWSL Best XI, further solidifying her status as a standout player in the league. With five goals and nine assists to her name, Bethune leads all first-year professional players in the NWSL, showcasing her scoring prowess and playmaking abilities.
One of Bethune's standout moments came when she scored a crucial second-half equalizer against San Diego Wave FC, securing a 1-1 draw for the Spirit. Her contributions continued as she provided an assist for teammate Courtney Brown's game-winning goal in a 2-0 victory over Gotham FC.
Temwa Chawinga Shines for Kansas City Current
Meanwhile, Kansas City Current forward Temwa Chawinga was named the NWSL Player of the Month for her exceptional performance in June. Chawinga's impressive goal-scoring record, including six goals in four games, has propelled her to the top of the Golden Boot race, tied with Barbra Banda of the Orlando Pride.
Chawinga's impact on the field has been lauded by her coach for her ability to break down defenses and make the team unpredictable. Her contributions, along with those of teammate Bia Zaneratto, have been instrumental in the Current's success this season.
League Standings and Records
As the NWSL regular season progresses, teams are vying for crucial points to secure playoff berths. With the top five teams separated by an 11-point gap, the competition is fierce as teams aim to solidify their positions in the standings.
Despite a recent loss, the Kansas City Current remain in the No. 2 spot in the NWSL standings, showcasing their strong performance throughout the season. The league has witnessed numerous records being broken, from fan attendance to winning streaks, adding to the excitement of the competition.
Upcoming Events and Resumption of Season
During the break for the Olympics, NWSL teams will participate in the NWSL x Liga MX Summer Cup, featuring 33 games in the tournament. The regular season will resume on August 23, with teams gearing up for the final stretch of matches to secure playoff berths.
The NWSL Rookie of the Month and Player of the Month awards, presented by EA SPORTS, recognize outstanding performances each month and are selected by the NWSL Media Association. These awards highlight the talent and achievements of players in the league, showcasing their contributions to the sport.
As the NWSL season progresses, fans can expect more thrilling matches and intense competition as teams vie for playoff spots and ultimately, the championship title.
