Forward Hayley Raso was awarded the Supporters' Player of the Year from the Rose City Riveters following Thorns FC's 3-1 victory over the Chicago Red Stars on Saturday at Providence Park.
"I’m really happy that they recognized me and that they have chosen me for this award. It’s really an honor," Raso said.
Playing in her third season in NWSL and her second with Portland, Raso was a Rose City revelation, scoring six goals while also adding three assists. When the season started out, winning such an accolade was not on Raso's mind.
"I guess I didn’t really ever think this would be possible. I just came out this season wanting to do my best and give my all and I've done that every game," Raso said.
Raso scored the opening goal in Saturday's regular-season finale, played before a sell-out crowd of 21,144. Post-match, the entire Thorns team climbed on the capo stand while being serenaded by the Riveters.
According to Raso, the Riveters have played a role in the club's on-the-field success this season.
"We have them behind us every game, " Raso said. "They really push us and they really drive us and their support is honestly, just outstanding."
