Rising Stars and Trading Cards: Parkside Supporting Rookies of the NWSL

Just a few months ago, the highly anticipated 2023 NWSL Draft named 48 talented rookies who were selected to join the ranks of the 12 NWSL teams. These young athletes had dedicated years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to achieving their ultimate dream—playing professional soccer. And now, they have something else to celebrate. They have their very own Parkside Trading Cards, featured in the new 2023 NWSL Collection Vol. 1 Hobby Box.

Parkside Trading Cards is a passionate supporter of rising female athletes. They are thrilled to play a part in these rookies’ journeys as they make their mark in the big leagues. Not only do these players have the honor of seeing themselves immortalized on their own women’s soccer trading cards. But, some have also recently partnered with Parkside to be part of their own Signature Series—a testament to their immense potential and the faith that Parkside has in their future success.

Among these exceptional rookies, three rising stars have already begun making waves in their debut NWSL season: Penelope Hocking, Jenna Nighswonger, and Reyna Reyes. Let’s take a closer look at their inspiring journeys and the invaluable support they receive from Parkside.

Penelope Hocking – Forward, Chicago Red Stars

Rookie sensation Penelope Hocking has already been making waves in the league. She was the seventh overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft for the Chicago Red Stars. Starting all eight games she has played in and accumulating 656 minutes of playing time, Hocking has showcased her undeniable talent. Her standout performance came in the form of a brace against the KC Current. This secured the Red Stars’ first win of the season.

This remarkable achievement earned her a coveted spot on Parkside’s Pronto series. Specifically, she’s on week three’s trading card #18, titled “Stepping into a Brace.” Hocking’s impact on the field and recognition by Parkside Trading Cards solidify her status as a rising star in the NWSL.

Jenna Nighswonger – Forward, Gotham FC

Selected fourth overall by NY/NJ Gotham FC, Jenna has been making her mark in the NWSL. In her seven appearances, including four starts, she has amassed 434 minutes on the field, showcasing her skills with a pass success rate of 72.4%. Notably, Nighswonger scored her first NWSL goal in the fifth minute against the Chicago Red Stars, putting her club ahead 1-0. This goal, the fastest for Gotham FC this season, also marked their first first-half goal of the year.

Additionally, Nighswonger earned a spot in the Pronto series for Week 6, titled “Gotham’s New Groove.” She is the sixth rookie and fifth NWSL draftee to find the net in the 2023 campaign. Nighswonger continues to shine brightly in her debut season.

Reyna Reyes – Defender, Portland Thorns FC

The Portland Thorns selected Reyna Reyes as the fifth overall pick in the NWSL draft. She has showcased her defensive prowess in her six games, with three starts, logging 222 minutes on the field. Reyes boasts an impressive 83.3% tackle success rate and a 63% duel success rate.

However, her standout moment came during the match between the Portland Thorns and the San Diego Wave. In that game, Reyes played her first full 90 minutes. In the 90th minute, she scored her first professional goal with a header. This secured a crucial 1-1 draw for Portland in front of an electric crowd of 18,130 fans at Snapdragon Stadium. Reyes’ impact as a rookie defender is undeniable. She continues to shine in the NWSL.

Parkside Trading Cards is playing a pivotal role in showcasing the talent, dedication, and passion that these rookies bring to the NWSL. Their cards are not just pieces of sports data. They are windows into the incredible moments and achievements of these rising stars. They capture the spirit of the game, the determination of these athletes, and the dreams they are chasing.

So, let’s applaud Parkside Trading Cards for their unrivaled support of rising female athletes like Penelope Hocking, Jenna Nighswonger, and Reyna Reyes. Through their commitment to growing the women’s game in the NWSL, they are helping to shape the future of women’s soccer and ensuring that these rookies get the recognition they deserve. As we collect their soccer trading cards, we are not just celebrating their achievements. We are investing in their journeys, supporting their dreams, and contributing to the vibrant legacy of women’s soccer.

Visit Parkside.com and use promo code GSN10 to get 25% off all new 2023 NWSL Collection

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