By OkayGoal 
We’re hitting the fourth month of action in the NWSL 2026 season and there has been tons of talent on display. From the league’s superstars picking up where they left off to the rookies getting their first taste of the big league, there has been stellar play across all teams. Here we will dive into the rookies who have shined the brightest and have received the ROTM awards.
March: Lia Godfrey (San Diego Wave FC)
To start hot in her professional career, Godfrey unleashed a fearlessness like no other! Not only did she come on as a substitute to score a thrilling 87th minute game-winning goal for the Wave, but she also scored in three consecutive matches in the month of March. Her contributions to the club so far have been exciting to see.
San Diego has asserted themselves as a big-time team that others need to watch out for. The Wave sit at the top of the league, and from the way things look, their dominance does not seem to be slowing down any time soon. Godfrey’s skill and development will surely be crucial for the Wave as the season progresses.
April: Jordynn Dudley (NJ/NYGotham FC)
Dudley has become a familiar name in the soccer world ever since her time with the Florida Seminoles. As a previous NCAA champion, it is no surprise to see Dudley finding her groove with a powerhouse like Gotham.
In the month of April, she recorded numerous shots and opportunities, but the main highlight of hers was her netting her first professional goal. It only took her 46 seconds to get on the scoresheet in Gotham’s match against the Chicago Stars!
With the firepower in Gotham’s roster, Dudley adds a youthful, energetic presence that can be a threat to any opponent. There’s sure to be more excitement ahead from Gotham and Dudley.
May: Kat Rader (Houston Dash)
Last and surely not least, our latest ROTM, Rader, has proven to be a skillful goalscorer. In total, she has 4 goals for Dash, but in May she recorded two crucial goals that helped Dash secure 4 points.
In her 12 appearances, Rader has shown lots of promise at a time when Dash truly needs it. Regardless of where Dash is in terms of standings, Rader stands in a bright spot that the team can continue to develop.
Featured image via @kat_rader