December 15, 2023 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) – OL Reign News Release
SEATTLE, WA. – OL Reign had one player selected by expansion side Bay FC and one player selected by Utah Royals FC in the 2024 NWSL Expansion Draft, presented by Ally. Defender Alyssa Malonson was selected by Bay FC with the first pick, while forward Elyse Bennett was taken by Utah Royals FC with the second pick.
“We are grateful for the contributions of both Alyssa and Elyse during their time with the club,” general manager Lesle Gallimore said. “I’m confident they will both continue to make a positive impact in this league, and we wish them nothing but success during this new opportunity.”
Malonson first signed with the Reign in January 2022 before going on loan to club FC Nordsjælland later that year. The tenacious defender made her regular season debut for OL Reign on June 17, 2023, going on to make a total of four regular season appearances for the club. In the 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup, the Spring, Texas native made five appearances for the Reign, earning one assist, one block and four interceptions.
Bennett was acquired by OL Reign from the Kansas City Current on January 11, 2023, after a standout rookie season with the Current. The dynamic forward made 21 regular season appearances for the Reign, in addition to one playoff appearance. The 23-year-old scored two goals for the Reign and added two assists. In the 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup, Bennett played in all seven games, scoring an additional goal for the Reign.
The NWSL transaction moratorium ends at 6:00 a.m. PT on Saturday, December 16, allowing clubs to make trades. In addition, free agents may sign with new clubs. The transaction moratorium will resume on Friday, December 22 at 3:00 p.m. PT. The 2024 NWSL Draft, presented by Ally, will take place on Friday, January 12, where OL Reign has the 27th and 55th overall selections.
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