Locals off to hot start in NWSL

It’s been a monumental spring for the women’s soccer in Colorado.

Yes, the USWNT is coming to Commerce City in June, but in order for local favorites to be a part of Vlatko Andonovski’s squad, they must remain consistent at the club level.

With the 22-game NWSL regular season kicking off this week, there are 14 women from Colorado who will look to make an impact:

Portland Thorns FC

Sophia Smith, Windsor: Smith has recorded three goals so far in the Challenge Cup, a hat trick against Angel City in the Thorns’ home debut last month. The Fossil Ridge High alum did the same against Uzbekistan in a friendly for the USWNT last month.

Natalie Beckman, Aurora: The rookie from DU has been a spark off the bench for Portland, as she has played 152 minutes, started once and assisted Smith in a stunning goal. Despite being listed all of 5-foot-2 and being picked third-tolast in January’s draft, the Grandview High grad has already proven she is dangerous.

Janine Beckie, Highlands Ranch: The newest addition to Portland, Beckie, a Valor Christian alum, arrived earlier this month from Manchester City. Beckie, who opted to play for Canada on the international stage, will look to be a key piece in the final third this season.

Racing Louisville FC

Jaelin Howell, Lone Tree: The No. 2 overall selection from Florida State is quickly adjusting to life in the NWSL. Howell, a Fossil Ridge High alum, recently scored her first goal for the senior USWNT and her first professional goal last week.

Lauren Milliet, Durango: The only Coloradan who grew up outside the Front Range currently in the league, the Colorado College product played in all 24 games for Racing last year.

Kansas City Current

Kristen Hamilton, Littleton: The Columbine High grad has been on fire to start the season, leading the Current to a Challenge Cup semifinal spot with four goals, including Saturday’s game-winner.

Alex Loera, Thornton: The Current rookie, a threetime West Coast Conference defender of the year at Santa Clara, has adjusted brilliantly so far. The Acamdey grad has made five starts in six games for 428 minutes, and one miraculous goal.

Chicago Red Stars

Mallory Pugh, Highlands Ranch: Not to be outdone in the goal-scoring category is Pugh, who has scored four times for the Red Stars this year. The Mountain Vista High product has also scored four times for the USWNT.

Other Coloradans in the NWSL

Washington Spirit: Jordan Baggett (Highlands Ranch).

OL Reign: Ally Watt (Colorado Springs). North Carolina Courage: Ryan Williams (Centennial).

Angel City FC: Brittany Isenhour (Littleton). NY/NJ Gotham FC: Estelle Johnson (Fort Collins). San Diego Wave FC: Sydney Pulver (Parker).