After a stunning 2017 campaign during which changed positions and scored six goals for the U.S. Women’s National Team, Julie Ertz was named the squad’s Player of the Year.
After establishing herself as a defensive stalwart in the 2015 World Cup, Julie was a mainstay for the USWNT at center back. But moving to defensive midfielder this past year, her impact was immediate and dramatic on both sides of the ball.
As U.S. Soccer detailed in its press release:
Ertz came on as a second-half substitute against Brazil on July 30 at the Tournament of Nations in the 57th minute and would go on to score the dramatic game-winner in the 89th minute of the epic 4-3 victory. She then played all but 52 minutes through the team’s final seven games at defensive midfielder, dominating the center of the field while scoring five more goals, including a brace against New Zealand, to finish second on the team in scoring. Ertz’s six total goals in 2017 almost equaled her overall total (8) from her previous four years on the WNT.
Julie explained in the following video that she’s willing to do whatever is necessary for the team to win.
Value in versatility 👌.
Wherever the #USWNT needs her, @julieertz is there: https://t.co/lxRm06QrN9 pic.twitter.com/i8tXwt4YHT
— U.S. Soccer WNT (@USWNT) September 15, 2017