By OkayGoal 
As of late, a lot of youthful talent has been on display in the NWSL and for the USWNT. Lilly Reale is a player who has demonstrated amazing skill in the backline. Here we’ll take a look at 10 things about Reale, from on-the-field accomplishments to off-the-field attributes.
1. UCLA Bruins
First off, Reale had a fantastic four years as a Bruin. Not only was she a starter in all of her 83 appearances, but she also received many accolades. Some awards include 2022 National Champion, first-team All-American, Pac-12 Defender of the Year, and Big Ten Defender of the Year.
2. Youth National Teams
Reale is no stranger to the US soccer organization. She played for the USYNT U-17, U-20, and U-23. Her tenacity and strength helped the U-20 squad win the 2022 CONCACAF Women’s U-20 Championship.
3. Defensive Mindset
One of Reale’s idols, being the legendary Julie Ertz, makes all the sense in the world when you look at how Reale plays. Even in her rookie year, Reale has shut down plenty of top-notch offenses. Her defensive capabilities are elite and are only going to improve now.
4. Versatility in High School
Although we are familiar with seeing Reale on the backline, during her first two years in high school, Reale was positioned as a forward. She recorded a total of 36 goals. Her final two years in high school are where she fully committed to the defensive position.
5. South Shore with Sentnor
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Both Ally Sentnor and Reale grew up in Massachusetts. The two played together on the South Shore Select team as young girls. Now, as young adults, they are both reppin’ the US on the senior national team. How cool is that?!
6. Sister, Sister
Lilly has two younger siblings. Sophie Reale is her younger sister who played with Lilly at UCLA for a few years. JT Reale is her younger brother, who is a student-athlete at her alma mater, Hingham High School.
7. NY Living
Since being signed by Gotham earlier this year, Reale has established stability for the club. Despite the club’s initial worries about departures and injuries, Reale has definitely instilled hope in the club. There have been no signs of worry from Reale’s end, and she’s sure to make the most of her three-year contract.
8. Called Up
Emma Hayes recently brought up a few new players to the senior squad, one being Reale. Not only did Reale make her senior debut on June 26, but she also helped the USWNT keep the shutout that day against the Republic of Ireland in a 4-0 victory.
9. Boston Roots
Although playing collegiate ball at UCLA, Reale is a Bostonian at heart. She was born in Boston, yet raised in Hingham. Reale initially committed to Boston College but moved her commitment to the Bruins after a coaching change at Boston.
10. Active On and Off the Field
As active as Reale is on the pitch, her interests outside of soccer are just as action-packed. She is a fan of various activities, including hiking, spending time by the beach, and surfing. Her stamina is surely like no other!
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