:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68665718/EmilySmithRacingLou.0.jpeg)
The 2021 NWSL Draft took place Wednesday, and a Cal player was selected, with defender Emily Smith taken with the first pick of the 4th Round by Racing Louisville.
A natural leader.
— Racing Louisville FC (@RacingLouFC) January 14, 2021
We've selected Cal defender Emily Smith, co-captain on a side with a 0.692 goals against average, with the 31st overall pick! pic.twitter.com/CBxPqTxYFM
Smith played three seasons at Cal, making 57 appearances in all, scoring three goals and five assists along the way. Co-captain in her junior season in 2019, she received the most plaudits during her freshman campaign, named a Top Drawer Soccer Freshman Best XI selection and a Pac-12 All-Freshman Team honoree.
As a 4th round selection, Smith is not guaranteed to be signed to a pro deal by Louisville, but she also has a choice to stay in school and play another year in college if she wishes. Louisville are an expansion club, however, and that may present an opportunity for Smith right away, if they need some bodies in defense, then she could earn a pro contract and embark on her career.
Smith is the latest Bear to be drafted into the NWSL, joining the likes of Emily Boyd and Alex Morgan.