NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Following a standout five-year career for the Vanderbilt soccer team, Maddie Elwell’s professional dream took another huge step closer to becoming a reality when she was drafted 15th overall on Saturday by the NWSL’s defending champion Washington Spirit.
This is the second-consecutive season the Commodores have had a student-athlete selected in the NWSL draft with Elwell joining Myra Konte – selected 30th by the North Carolina Courage in the 2021 draft.
❤️ @WashSpirit, y’all got a great one.
👊 @MaddieElwell pic.twitter.com/YFcnupvNL8
— Vanderbilt Soccer (@VandySoccer) December 18, 2021
The Ambler, Pennsylvania, native finished with 12 goals and 29 assists with the Commodores in 97 career games. For her play in 2021, Elwell earned a number of honors including second team All-Southeast Region and second team All-SEC. Elwell’s 29 assists are the third most in program history.
Elwell helped carry Vanderbilt through one of its most successful runs in program history. The Dores made four NCAA Tournament appearances during her time in Nashville. Her collegiate career included an SEC tournament championship, an SEC regular season championship and an SEC East Division championship.
Elwell will look to step into the league that also includes fellow Commodore Simone Charley. Recently of the Portland Thorns, Charley inked a two-year deal with the expansion Angel City Football Club.
With the 15th overall pick, we have selected @MaddieElwell! Welcome to DC! pic.twitter.com/A37uVMMmwr
— Washington Spirit (@WashSpirit) December 18, 2021
