Top 100 Women’s Division I Soccer Players Postseason Rankings

ByCoach

The women’s college soccer season is ending, and it’s time to reflect on the standout players who made a significant impact on the field. This year, TopDrawerSoccer has released its highly anticipated postseason player rankings. The rankings highlight the top 100 athletes who have excelled from August to December. This blog post delves into the standout performances of the top five players, examining their contributions and unique qualities.

For the full list, you can check out the TopDrawerSoccer postseason player rankings.

Kate Faasse: A Championship Leader

Kate Faasse of North Carolina tops the list, finishing the year as the fourth player of the 21st century to win a championship while leading the nation in goals. Faasse’s remarkable achievement of scoring 20 goals, with eight being game-winners, underscores her ability to deliver both quality and quantity on the field. Her performance not only sends a strong message about her prowess but also cements her status as a key player in women’s college soccer.

Key Highlights of Faasse’s Season

Faasse’s season was marked by several standout moments:

  • Leading the nation in goals with 20 strikes.
  • Eight game-winning goals, tied for the NCAA DI lead.
  • Instrumental in North Carolina’s championship victory.

Caiya Hanks: The Uncontainable Force

Wake Forest’s Caiya Hanks had an exceptional season, finishing as one of only two NCAA DI players to achieve at least 11 goals and 12 assists. Known for her dynamic play, Hanks often operated as a one-woman attack, making her a focal point for the opposition. Despite this, she remained unstoppable, showcasing her versatility and resilience throughout the season.

Hanks’ Dominant Performance

Hanks’ contributions were pivotal for Wake Forest:

  • 11 goals and 12 assists, a rare and impressive feat.
  • Consistently performed as a key offensive player.
  • Helped Wake Forest maintain a competitive edge.

Lilly Reale: The Defensive Maestro

UCLA’s Lilly Reale, a supremely gifted center back, was a standout despite an early exit in the NCAA tournament. Reale’s ability to excel both with and without the ball earned her a midseason number one ranking. Her defensive skills and composure would have likely made her the top pick if the NWSL draft were still in operation.

Reale’s Defensive Excellence

Reale’s season was characterized by:

  • Exceptional defensive skills, making her a cornerstone of UCLA’s defense.
  • Comfortable and effective play both with and without the ball.
  • Recognition as a potential top pick in professional drafts.

Taylor Huff: The Resilient Playmaker

Florida State’s Taylor Huff played a crucial role in keeping her team competitive despite challenges such as injuries and the departure of star players for youth World Cups. Huff’s impressive tally of 12 goals and 10 assists was instrumental in Florida State’s ACC tournament championship. Her presence on the field was a game-changer, ensuring that the team remained a national contender.

Huff’s Impactful Season

Huff’s contributions were vital for Florida State:

  • 12 goals and 10 assists, showcasing her playmaking abilities.
  • Helped Florida State win the ACC tournament.
  • Maintained the team’s status as a national contender.

Maggie Graham: Peaking at the Perfect Time

Duke’s Maggie Graham saved her best for last, delivering an epic season filled with memorable moments. Notably, Graham scored a hat trick to hand Stanford its first home loss since 2021 and led the College Cup semifinalists in goals. Her 14 goals this season significantly surpassed her previous tally, highlighting her growth and peak performance at a crucial time.

Graham’s Memorable Moments

Graham’s season was defined by:

  • 14 goals, more than doubling her previous record.
  • Key performances, including a hat trick against Stanford.
  • Leadership in guiding Duke to the College Cup semifinals.

The 2023 women’s college soccer season has been marked by exceptional talent and memorable performances. The top five players highlighted here have not only demonstrated their individual skills but have also significantly contributed to their teams’ successes.

For a comprehensive look at the top 100 players, visit the TopDrawerSoccer postseason player rankings.

Related Posts