Thorns FC Sign Defender Reyna Reyes
March 25, 2023 - National Women's Soccer League (NWSL)
Portland Thorns FC News Release
PORTLAND, Ore. - Portland Thorns FC have signed defender and the fifth overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft Reyna Reyes to a two-year contract with an option for the 2025 season, it was announced today.
"We are excited to sign Reyna and welcome her to Portland. Despite her early-season injury, we've already seen her resilience and commitment to the club and the group," said Thorns FC general manager Karina LeBlanc. "She has worked extremely hard, and we are happy to add her to this deep and talented roster. Reyna has tremendous character, and I believe she has the passion and desire to make an impact for us on the field and in the community."
Reyes, 22, earned first team All-American honors in her senior season, helping leading Alabama to the 2022 Women's College Cup. In her final season, the SEC Defender of the Year also earned first team All-Region and All-SEC honors, helping anchor a Crimson Tide backline that recorded a program-record 12 shutouts and 23 wins. She appeared in 27 games (27 starts), tallying eight goals and an assist, including the game-winning goal in the quarterfinal round of the NCAA Tournament against Duke in overtime.
"We are happy to add Reyna to our roster. She brings a competitive approach to her play every day and is strong in her defending actions," said Thorns FC head coach Mike Norris. "She loves to get forward and has the ability to join our attack from all areas of the field. She is an excellent addition to our current roster."
In her four seasons at Alabama (2019-22), Reyes appeared in 79 career games (79 starts), recording 16 goals and five assists. During her time with Alabama, she was a three-time first All-SEC pick and four-time All-Region selection, garnering first team recognition in 2021 and 2022 and third team honors during the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Notably, Reyes has earned four caps with the Mexico Women's National Team, making her senior national team debut on Feb. 24, 2021.
Thorns FC open the 2023 NWSL regular season at Providence Park tomorrow against the Orlando Pride; kickoff is set for 2 p.m. (Pacific).The home opener will be broadcast locally on FOX 12 PLUS with streaming available on Paramount+.
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