Rookie defender Madison Hammond collected a bunch of firsts after her OL Reign faced off against the Utah Royals in their Fall Series debut.
Hammond, a graduate of Wake Forest University, made her first appearance for the Reign during the match and became the first Native American to play in the NWSL. (Hammond is Navajo.)
What's more, Billie Jean King gave her a shoutout on Twitter.
Not only is Hammond paving the way for younger generations to feel inspired and showing them that they have no limitations based on their race or heritage, she's opening doors and people are noticing.
You know it's real when Billie Jean King takes time out of her day to tweet a shoutout, but not just Billie Jean King — USWNT and North Carolina Courage star Crystal Dunn also gave her a shoutout on the debut and achievement.
Several NWSL rookies are taking a stand on being the change that the league and women’s sports needs, and it's truly incredible to watch.