Kat Rader, a recent Duke women's soccer graduate, has quickly become a standout in the National Women's Soccer League, earning the league's Rookie of the Month award for May.
Her debut season has already reshaped expectations, as she helped the Houston Dash secure four points during a two‑match homestand that featured back‑to‑back game‑winning goals.
Rader's contributions extended beyond the scoresheet; she is tied for the team lead with four goals and shares the league's rookie goal record, while also topping all newcomers in shots (21) and shots on goal (14).
She has logged 1,009 minutes across 11 starts, adding an assist and maintaining a presence that leads the rookie class in minutes played.
International Experience
Currently with the U‑23 U.S. Women's National Team in Brazil, Rader is training and preparing for friendlies against local club sides, using the exposure to accelerate her development.
Later this month she will return to Houston as the Dash resume league play in early July, a timeline that promises to keep her momentum rolling and further cement her impact on the team.