Former Penn State women’s soccer star Sam Coffey picked up her first professional distinction from the National Women’s Soccer League on Monday.

Coffey, a midfielder for the Portland Thorns, was named the league’s June Rookie of the Month after recording six shots and registering an 85% passing accuracy rate throughout the month. The Nittany Lion also produced her first assist in Portland’s game against San Diego Wave FC on June 8.

Just nine games into her season, Coffey has started every game for the Thorns thus far, making a big impact and leading Portland to a 3-0-1 record in June. Additionally, the rookie earned a call-up from the U.S. Women’s National Team on June 13, further underscoring her success in the big leagues.

During her time in Happy Valley, Coffey earned three first-team All-Big Ten recognitions, was named the 2021 Big Ten Midfielder of the Year, and recorded 42 goals.

Coffey and the U.S. Women’s National Team will face off against Colombia at 10 p.m. on June 28 in the CONCACAF Championship matches. The Nittany Lion will then continue her successful NWSL debut season with the Portland Thorns on July 1 against Angel City FC.

About the Author

Keeley Lamm

Keeley was Onward State’s managing editor and social media manager in another life. She was also the host of Onward State’s podcast, Podward State. Hopefully she's sitting on a porch somewhere, and you can reach her at keeleylamm@gmail.com.

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