Moments after players heard their names announced in Friday’s 2024 National Women’s Soccer League draft, they walked backstage to a large piece of glass they could autograph to create the illusion of signing a camera lens. The idea was to capture their first signature as professionals, a subtle (and sponsored) creative touch on a celebratory day.
The irony is that they had not yet signed any professional contracts.
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In total, 56 players were selected by the NWSL’s 14 teams on Friday at the Anaheim Convention Center. Many of them were there in person to cherish the moment under the blue-and-pink lights of the branded ballroom. The joy was palpable from the opening moments of the draft right down to one of the final selections — who was picked well after midnight on the east coast — who cried as she walked to the stage. Earlier in the day, NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman reiterated her love for the draft because of its ability to produce those personal moments.
The realities that lie ahead for those prospective professionals are far less glamorous than Friday’s pomp and…
