It seems there are few things the U.S. Women's National Team enjoys more than surprising their teammates in special moments.
Just a few months ago, the team surprised their teammates who had just won the NWSL Championship with Gotham in a sweet moment. They were at it again this week to announce the winners of the U.S. Soccer Federation's Female Players of the Year.
Rose Lavelle introduced Lilly Reale as the Young Female Soccer Player of the Year, fully unaware that she would be in the spotlight just moments later.
"I just want to take a second to celebrate somebody. I think she's somebody who just puts her head down and works," Lavelle said before Emily Sonnett announced Reale. "[She] came in and had a huge impact on the team, made their impact for club and country."
Reale was promptly surrounded, her teammates pushing her to give a speech.
"This year has just been a whirlwind, but honestly, I really appreciate you guys so much," she said. "I think back on last year so often in the offseason and now to be back with you guys is just such an honor. I'm excited to do it all again."
Just when Lavelle thought the presentation was done, Sonnett stepped back into the circle with one more announcement.
"She continues to show up on the world stage, scoring goals in the final, club and country," Sonnett said.
"You bamboozled me," Lavelle said when she realized what was happening..
"Bestie," Sonnett said, turning to Lavelle. "You are the 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year."
Her teammates, predictably, went wild.
"The journey is that much sweeter when you get to do it with people you love. Thank you guys for making it really easy during a really hard time to come back and play with you guys," Lavelle said. "It's so fun. Let's keep the good times rolling."
Cue the goosebumps!

