Reign FC has signed forward Bethany Balcer to a three-year contract covering the 2020, 2021, and 2022 seasons with a team option for a fourth year, the club announced today. The 2019 NWSL Rookie of the Year led the club in scoring in 2019.

“I’m super excited to continue my journey with the Reign,” Balcer said. “I grew so much last year and I’m looking forward to continue that momentum and develop my game even further under this incredible organization and new coaching staff. The environment here demands growth and that’s incredibly fun to be a part of.”

Balcer made history in 2019, becoming the first player from an NAIA school to sign an NWSL contract. The 22-year-old provided a glimpse of what was in store when she scored the first goal at Cheney Stadium in club history in a 1-1 draw against the Orlando Pride on April 22.

The forward went on to be the only Reign player to appear in all 25 of the club’s matches, leading all rookies with six goals and two assists. Balcer tied for fifth in the league with 55 shots taken and was named to the NWSL Second XI, along with teammates Lauren Barnes and Megan Rapinoe.

“Bethany had an extraordinary rookie season and was deserving of all the recognition and honors she received,” said Reign FC CEO Bill Predmore. “Her consistency and quality compelled us to make a long-term commitment to Bethany, as we feel she has significant upside and will be an impact player on our team and in the NWSL for many years to come.”

“Last year was a pretty sporadic year, with injuries and new players coming in constantly,” Balcer said. “I’m excited to really create a close-knit culture as a team this year and get back into the playoffs and bring home some hardware for the fans who deserve it.”