OL Reign's Madison Hammond Becomes First Native American Player In NWSL History

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. 

Cheers to Madison Hammond (@gohaamm) on her #NWSL debut for @OLReign yesterday!

She is the first Native American athlete to play in the league.

You have to see it to be it! #Trailblazer https://t.co/u0ySx6qrMu

— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) September 28, 2020

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.

Such an incredible achievement! Congrats Madison! https://t.co/MzMypZUbRj

— Crystal Dunn Soubrier (@crysdunn_19) September 28, 2020

Yesterday, OL Reign defender Madison Hammond made her NWSL debut When she stepped on the field, she also became the first Native American ever to play in the league Madison is Navajo, San Felipe and African American @gohaamm @nwsl (via @olreign) pic.twitter.com/WHMyif44bw

— On Her Turf (@OnHerTurf) September 28, 2020

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.