Ashley Hatch 2024 NWSL Season Reflection: Today, we’re diving into the remarkable season of Ashley Hatch, the talented forward for the Washington Spirit, who gave it her all in the 2024 NWSL season. While the season ended in heartbreak with a tough loss in the NWSL Championship to Orlando Pride, Ashley’s journey this year is one of growth, resilience, and perseverance. So, let’s take a look back at what made this season so special for Ashley Hatch.”
Ashley Hatch 2024 NWSL Season Reflection
“The 2024 NWSL Championship didn’t end the way Ashley Hatch or the Washington Spirit had hoped. A 1-0 loss to Orlando Pride marked the end of their season, with Ashley Hatch giving it everything she had. Five shots on goal, but none found the back of the net. But, as we’ll see, it wasn’t just about the final score—it’s about the journey and the growth along the way.”
“Ashley Hatch took to Instagram a few days after the game to reflect on her season. And what’s amazing about Ashley is her ability to stay positive and proud, even in the face of defeat.”
‘Proud is the word that comes to mind as I reflect back on this season. I’m so proud of this group and the growth that we saw together. I love every single one of these women and will cherish the memories we made and the lessons we learned this year forever.’
“Even after the tough loss, Ashley’s words reflect the heart and soul she poured into this season. She’s proud of her team, and the growth they achieved together was something she’ll hold onto forever.”
“And the gratitude didn’t stop there. Ashley Hatch thanked the fans, friends, and family for their constant support. She knows that the love from the fans is what makes the hard times a little easier to bear. As she said, ‘Hope to see you all next year.'”
“Now, let’s talk about how Ashley’s season unfolded. It was a season of change, not just for the team, but for Ashley Hatch herself. With a new head coach, Jonatan Giráldez, at the helm, Ashley found herself adjusting to a new system of play.”
“Coach Giráldez brought a fresh perspective to the team, helping the players, including Ashley, to see the game in a new light. But, as with any change, there were challenges. At the start of the season, Ashley struggled to find her rhythm and only scored two goals.”
“And then, a bit of adversity hit. Ashley was moved out of the starting lineup and spent eight games coming off the bench. But this didn’t stop her. In fact, it motivated her even more.”
“As Ashley explained, knowing the team would need her at some point gave her the drive to stay sharp. ‘I wanted to be ready for whatever was asked of me,’ she said, ‘and if the team needed me, I wanted to feel confident enough to step up and help the team.'”
“And that’s exactly what she did. Ashley’s determination paid off. She earned her starting spot back and went on a late-season scoring surge. In the final seven games of the season, Ashley scored five more goals, bringing her total to seven for the season.”
“It wasn’t just about talent—it was about relentless hard work. Ashley stayed hungry and focused, pushing herself every day in training. And it showed on the field.”
“After missing the playoffs last year, Ashley and the Spirit bounced back with a vengeance in 2024. They finished as the second-best team in the league, earning a spot in the playoffs. But it wasn’t just about the team’s success—it was about Ashley’s personal achievements too.”
“This season, Ashley became the 35th player to play in 150 NWSL games. And with seven goals this season, she moved into fifth place on the NWSL’s all-time scoring leader list with 53 career goals.”
“Not only did she prove herself on the field, but she solidified her place as one of the league’s top goal-scorers. Ashley is truly one of the best.”
“And the best part? Ashley’s journey isn’t over. She’s signed through the 2026 season, with a player option for 2027. So we’ll get to see more of her amazing skills for years to come.”
“In the end, Ashley’s 2024 season was a story of resilience, growth, and unshakable determination. And while the championship may have slipped through their fingers this year, one thing’s for sure—Ashley Hatch will keep pushing, keep scoring, and keep inspiring us all.”
