In today's episode, LDG interviews Seattle Reign and USWNT U-23 Defender Emily Mason!

Emily played collegiately at Rutgers University, a Big Ten juggernaut, where she earned multiple accolades, including Big Ten All-Freshman Team honors and recognition as one of the top young defenders in the nation. Mason has competed with the U.S. Women’s Youth National Teams from the U15 to the U23 levels, including under her future club head coach, Laura Harvey. The same day she was announced on the USWNT Futures Camp roster, she signed her first-ever professional contract with the Seattle Reign. Due to her incredible rookie year performance, her contract with the team was extended, cementing her as a centerpiece for the future of the club's backline.

In this interview, we talk about Emily's time at the USWNT Futures Camp, her experiences with Rutgers/the USWNT youth national teams, and what made the Reign's project attractive to her. Additionally, she chats about some of her (and the team's) goals ahead of this season's playoff push/long term, the emotions surrounding her NWSL debut, and so much more!

In the rapid-fire section, we get to learn more about Emily off the pitch. As this interview features listener-submitted questions, stay tuned until the rapid-fire section at the end to hear the majority of the submitted questions.

Cover Art Image Credit: Seattle Reign FC

Thank you for listening! Remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts, on Instagram (@the_womens_soccer_podcast) and Bluesky (@thewomenssoccerpod.bsky.social). In addition, leave a 5-star review and tell all your friends about our show!