PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC today announced that the club has signed their 2022 NWSL Draft picks, midfielder Gabby Provenzano and forward Natalie Beckman. Provenzano, the 22nd pick in the draft, and Beckman, the 48th pick in 2022, each signed a one-year contract with an option.
“Gabby arrived into our environment completely unflappable; calm under pressure, hardworking, ready to learn, she has been a pleasure to coach and has seamlessly integrated into the team,” Thorns FC head coach Rhian Wilkinson shared. “We see her as a prospect that we can develop this season, whenever we need her, she is ready. A top-quality person and player who is ready to fill in for her team in whatever position or capacity that is needed. I’ve really appreciated her commitment to her own development and her clear team-first mentality.”
Provenzano was drafted by Portland after a five-year collegiate career at Rutgers University. The Sergeantsville, N.J., native made 103 appearances (86 starts) for the Scarlet Knights, recording five goals and three assists. The senior captain helped lead Rutgers to the 2021 Women’s College Cup in her final season and went on to earn College Cup All-Tournament Team honors. Provenzano capped off her college career landing herself on the 2021 All-American First Team and was named Big Ten Defender of the Year.
“Nat has arrived in Portland with a big smile on her face and the attitude to watch, work, and learn. She is a top character person and player who has seamlessly fit into the locker room and team,” said Wilkinson. “She’s played numerous positions for us during the preseason and her ability and willingness to do whatever it takes for the team has been appreciated. Those who have been fortunate enough to see her play in the preseason have seen a young player who has a bright future and high ceiling for her development, I’m excited to have her join our team.”
Beckman joins Thorns FC out of University of Denver where she was a four-year starter. In 83 matches (81 starts), she racked up 21 goals and 47 assists, ranking her sixth in Denver’s Division 1 history with 89 points. In her senior season, Beckman tallied 18 assists, setting a new single-season record for the Pioneers and ranking second overall in NCAA. In her final season, she was named Summit League Offensive Player of the Year for a second consecutive season while also earning United Soccer Coaches All-West Region First Team honors.
Gabby Provenzano
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5-5
Hometown: Sergeantsville, N.J.
College: Rutgers University
Natalie Beckman
Position: Forward
Height: 5-2
Hometown: Aurora, Colo.
College: University of Denver
