U.S. Soccer on Friday named Gotham FC midfielder Rose Lavelle the 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year and Gotham defender Lilly Reale the 2025 U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year.
Lavelle and Reale have been a significant part of Gotham’s 2025 championship run, even Lavelle scoring the winning goal in the final as she is entering her 10th year being an active staple in the USWNT. Lavelle scored in every UWNT match she started in 2025, including a feature in the USWNT’s 50 points club as she notched 27 goals and 27 assists for the United States.
“When I look at the past year, it feels like a testament to the support system I had, with my family, the medical staff at Gotham and with the National Team, all my teammates, coaches and friends,” said Lavelle. “I wouldn’t have been in the position to even be up for the award without all of the support I received throughout the year just to get back on the field. So, this award is definitely shared with all the people I was lucky enough to have in my corner along the way.”
Photo of Rose Lavelle at Gotham FC (Photo Credit Gotham FC)
Reale played in all 26 regular-season matches and started all three postseason games and was awarded the NWSL Rookie of the Year. She made her senior USWNT debut with a start against Ireland on June 26, helping secure a shutout and registering her first international assist on Alyssa Thompson’s goal.
“I am constantly reminded of how special this National Team program is when I reflect on all of the relationships, knowledge, laughs and opportunities that U.S. Soccer has given me over the years,” said Reale. “It was this environment where I first learned what it truly took to reach the next level and just how different each person’s journey will look. This year in particular has been one marked by major growth moments, joy and lots of lessons. Through it all, I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by such charismatic teammates, coaches and fans. Being able to play alongside many of my role models and represent my country at the highest level is something that I’ll never take for granted.”
Photo of Lilly Reale for Gotham FC (Photo Credit Gotham FC)
Gotham FC open their preseason in Spain in preparation for the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup.