SANTA CLARA, Calif. – Former Bronco women's soccer All-American Julie Johnston was named the National Women's Soccer League 2014 Rookie of the Year. Johnston was the No. 3 overall selection in the draft last year. She scored two goals and added two assists in 21 games during her rookie season with the Chicago Red Stars.
"Obviously we're very happy for Julie and it's no surprise to me to hear that she won," said Santa Clara head coach Jerry Smith. "Anyone who has worked with her knows her focus, commitment, ability to adapt, and ability to be a difference maker. We think she's unbelievable and wish she was still playing with us. Congratulations to Julie."
Johnston helped Chicago to the second-best defense in the league. The Red Stars allowed 26 goals in 24 games, good for just 1.08 per game. In Johnston's 21 games the Red Stars allowed just multiple goals four times.
The captain of the 2012 U-20 Women's National Team that won the World Cup, Johnston attempted 19 shots on the season with seven going on goal. She played a total of 1,890 minutes in her rookie campaign.
The NWSL awards are voted on by a selection of journalists that cover the league on a consistent basis, team officials and NWSL players.
