may-rookie-of-the-month
By: NWSL Editor
NJ/NY Gotham FC Defender/Midfielder Jenna Nighswonger Named May Rookie of the Month, Presented by Ally

No. 4 overall pick scored first NWSL goals in May

NEW YORK (June 6, 2023) -

The National Women’s Soccer League announced today that NJ/NY Gotham FC defender/midfielder Jenna Nighswonger has been named Rookie of the Month, presented by Ally, for the month of May by the NWSL Media Association and the NWSL’s on-air broadcast talent.

NEW YORK (June 6, 2023) -

The National Women’s Soccer League announced today that NJ/NY Gotham FC defender/midfielder Jenna Nighswonger has been named Rookie of the Month, presented by Ally, for the month of May by the NWSL Media Association and the NWSL’s on-air broadcast talent. Appearing both on the back line and in the midfield during the month, the No. 4 overall pick from the 2023 NWSL Draft, presented by Ally scored her first career goal on May 7, notching the game-opening tally in Gotham FC’s 2-1 win against the Chicago Red Stars. The following match, the Huntington Beach, California native scored her second goal in league play on May 21, opening scoring for Gotham FC once again in the club’s 4-1 victory over OL Reign. Nighswonger’s offensive production also included an assist on teammate Lynn Williams’ game-tying goal against the North Carolina Courage, helping secure a draw on the road for Gotham FC. Nighswonger appeared in 283 minutes of game action throughout the month, starting in four matches, registering 64 successful passes and winning 16 duels. The NWSL Rookie of the Month presented by Ally is selected each month of the regular season by the NWSL Media Association, a collection of writers that cover the league on a consistent basis, and the NWSL’s on-air broadcast talent.