NWSL Rookie of the Year Julie Johnston’s impact on the Red Stars was immediate. (Photo Copyright Clark Linehan for The Equalizer)
Julie Johnston of the Chicago Red Stars has been voted 2014 NWSL Rookie of the Year. The No. 3 overall pick out of Santa Clara played in 21 games for the Red Stars, most of it as the lead of a back four that performed well throughout the season despite a revolving door of personnel.
“I told her on the first day of training camp back in March that the line was hers to lead,” Red Stars coach Rory Dames said. “She did that and more for us. She has made an incredible impact on this team. It is a well-deserved honor for Julie to receive.”
Johnston beat out the two players selected ahead of her for the award. Dash forward Kealia Ohai finished 2nd to match her No. 2 spot on the draft board. The top overall pick, Crystal Dunn of the Washington Spirit, finished 3rd.
[MORE: Johnston rides confident rookie year to USWNT spot]
It took Johnston less than an hour into her pro career to make an impact. In the Red Stars’ opening game she headed in a corner kick served by Vanessa DiBernardo—the No. 4 pick in the draft—for what turned out to be the only goal in a 1-0 win over the Western New York Flash. Johnston added another goal plus two assists while rarely making a mistake in the back. She also impacted matches by picking opportune moments to sneak forward and join the attack. Last Wednesday the 22-year old played 45 minutes for the U.S. in their 4-1 win over Switzerland.
The remaining NWSL awards will be announced next week. Seattle Reign FC’s Kim Little wrapped up the Golden Boot with 16 goals in 23 games.
