Penn State women’s soccer great Raquel ‘Rocky’ Rodriguez was named Rookie of the Year for the 2016 season of the National Women’s Soccer League, adding to her accolades that include the MAC Hermann Trophy and the College Cup Most Outstanding Offensive Player.
In the 2016 NWSL Draft, New Jersey-based club Sky Blue FC traded up to land Rodriguez as the second selection overall. She was paired alongside another Penn State soccer legend, Maya Hayes, on the team.
The Costa Rica native was a central cog in the midfield for Sky Blue FC. She had a goal and an assist in 18 appearances for the team. Her lone goal of the season was a blast in a 2-1 win over Ali Krieger’s club, the Washington Spirit.
@raque_rocky great goal. Her first goal? #WASvNJ #NWSL pic.twitter.com/nqkjX2DBlP
— WoSo Comps (@WoSoComps) June 25, 2016
Rodriguez was one of three members of the 2015 National Championship-winning Penn State women’s soccer team to play in the NWSL this season. Goalkeeper Britt Eckerstrom played for the Western New York Flash and Mallory Weber played for the Portland Thorns.
