Clemson, S.C. — Senior forward Mariana Speckmaier joined the list of Tigers to be drafted into the National Women’s Soccer League after being selected by the Washington Spirit with the 39th overall pick on Wednesday night.
“So many emotions,” said Speckmaier. “Mostly excited to be in a great city, with a great organization, and to be back with Sam [Staab]. We played so well together while she was here and I am excited to get to play with her again at a professional level.”
Speckmaier’s selection comes after a fall campaign where she earned her third All-ACC honor in four years. While donning the Clemson Orange and Regalia, Speckmaier has helped lead the Tigers to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances. To date, the Miami, Fla. native has recorded 25 goals and six assists for a total of 56 career points.
With the Spirit’s pick, Speckmaier joins former Tiger teammate, Sam Staab, who was drafted by the Spirit fourth overall in the 2019 NWSL College Draft.
Because of a waiver obtained by the NWSL from the NCAA, players picked in the 2021 NWSL Draft will have until Friday, January 22, 2021 to decide whether to report immediately to their NWSL club or at the conclusion of the spring collegiate season.
