In a year marked by the standout performances of top NWSL draft picks, one player has quietly emerged as a revelation. Emma Sears, the 28th overall selection in the 2024 draft, has been a driving force for Racing Louisville, propelling her team's playoff push and earning a well-deserved first call-up to the U.S. Women's National Team.

A Late Bloomer's Meteoric Rise

Unexpected Opportunity, Grateful Response

Sears, a 23-year-old forward, was caught off guard by the news of her USWNT selection, but her gratitude was palpable. "It's definitely come as a shock for sure," she admitted to the Racing Louisville media team. "I feel extremely honored for the opportunity." The moment she received the news was a lighthearted one, as Sears recalled her friends and family flooding her with celebratory U.S. flag emojis.

A Winding Journey to the Top

Sears' path to the national team has been anything but conventional. Unlike many of her peers, she had never represented the USWNT at the youth level before this senior call-up. "It seems bizarre to describe a 23-year-old as a late bloomer," the article notes, "but having never represented the USWNT at any underage level before her first senior call-up, it seems an appropriate description for Sears."Sears' journey in the sport began at the age of six, when she and her twin sister took up football in their hometown of California. The family's frequent moves, including a stint in London, ultimately led Sears and her sister to Ohio State University, where she honed her skills and caught the eye of NWSL scouts.

A Breakout Season with Racing Louisville

Sears' professional career took off when she was selected as the 28th overall pick in the 2024 NWSL draft, joining the ranks of Racing Louisville. Since then, she has been a revelation, outperforming her expected goals (xG) by a remarkable 1.5, the highest margin among all Louisville players. Her five goals and one assist in her debut NWSL season have set a new franchise record for a rookie.Sears' impact extends beyond just scoring goals. She has been a driving force in creating chances for her teammates, leading the Louisville roster in goal-creating actions per 90 minutes. Her impressive defensive contributions, ranking above the 90th percentile among attacking midfielders and wingers in the top leagues worldwide, have further solidified her status as a well-rounded talent.

A Penchant for Wonder Goals

Sears has made a habit of scoring stunning goals for her club, showcasing her exceptional technical ability and daring runs. Her first goal for Louisville was a particular highlight, as she picked up the ball in her own half, sprinted past the Utah Royals' defense, and blasted the ball into the top corner. This wonder goal, along with another impressive strike against the Kansas City Current, earned Sears NWSL Goal of the Week honors on two separate occasions.

Racing Louisville's Playoff Push

Sears' contributions have been crucial in keeping Racing Louisville's playoff hopes alive. The team faces a must-win scenario in their final match against the San Diego Wave, needing a victory to maintain their postseason aspirations. With a little help from other results, Louisville could extend their season and potentially make a deep playoff run.

A Promising Future with the USWNT

Sears' selection to the USWNT squad comes at a pivotal time, as the national team undergoes a generational shift. With the retirements of iconic players like Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe, the door has opened for young talents like Sears to stake their claim. Head coach Emma Hayes has recognized the potential in Sears, and this call-up represents a significant opportunity for the rising star to showcase her abilities on the international stage.As Sears embarks on her USWNT journey, the future looks bright. With her impressive club performances, unique skill set, and unwavering determination, she has the potential to become a fixture in the national team's lineup for years to come. Fans and pundits alike will be eagerly watching to see how this late bloomer continues to make her mark on the game.