Atlanta area product Gabby Seiler drafted by the Portland Thorns in the 2018 NWSL draft

With the eighth overall pick in the 2018 NWSL draft, the Portland Thorns selected Gabby Seiler ( McIntosh High School, University of Florida). Gabby is a product of McIntosh High school in Peachtree City and is the second player from the area to play in the NWSL( Kelly O’Hara, Starrs Mill High School).

Seiler originally started her collegiate career at the University of Georgia. As a freshman, she started every game and was named the team’s Rookie of the Year. In 2014, as a member of the Bulldogs, she was named to the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-South Region second team member , All-Southeastern Conference first team as well as being nominated for the MAC Hermann Trophy (given to the best men’s/women’s collegiate soccer player).

After sitting out the 2015 season, due to SEC transfer rules, she enrolled at the University of Florida. As a member of the Gators in 2016, Seiler was named NSCAA All-South region first team, All SEC conference first team, and was an ALL SEC Tournament selection.

This year, Seiler led the Gators with eight assist, and was second in goals (6). She was named team captain for the season and once again earned All-SEC first team honors. She was also called into three USWNT-U23 team camps.

Top Drawer Soccer had her listed as a top 5 pick according to their 2018 NWSL Draft prospects list.

Capable of playing just about anywhere on the field, Seiler’s versatility is what pushes her up the board and into this spot. Smooth with the ball and good enough defensively, her progression after joining Florida could push her into contention to the full USWNT one day. However, news that she joined up with the Florida basketball team raises an eye about her availability when it comes to the NWSL.

Seiler is not expected to join the Thorns’ pre-season camp as she is currently pursing a Masters Degree in Management and is a member of the Florida Gators Basketball team. She should be available once the basketball season is over.

Good luck Gabby!