Two Hogs Selected in NWSL Draft
ANAHEIM, Calif. – For the first time in program history, the Arkansas soccer program saw two of its players, Anna Podojil and Bea Franklin, selected in the National Women’s Soccer League Draft.
Both players were taken in the third of four 14-pick rounds on Friday night.
Podojil, the most decorated player in program history, was selected as the 35th pick overall by the Washington Spirit. In college, the forward was a four-time United Soccer Coaches All-American and a four-time First Team All-SEC selection. Podojil will leave the program atop the record book in goals (50), points (135), assists (135) and game-winning goals (15).
Podojil becomes the fourth Razorback to be taken in an NWSL Draft and the first taken by the Washington Spirit.
“I am so excited to get this opportunity to play at the next level,” Podojil said. “I couldn’t be more grateful for my time with Razorback soccer and I am so excited to start my new journey with the Washington Spirit!”
Franklin, who joined the Hogs in 2021 after playing her first two seasons at Notre Dame, was taken six picks later by the Chicago Red Stars. The Seattle, Washington native is coming off a successful season leading Arkansas in goals (9) and assists (9). Franklin racked up numerous awards in 2023, including United Soccer Coaches All-America Second Team, TopDrawerSoccer Best XI, All-SEC First Team, SEC Midfielder and Scholar-Athlete of the Year, CSC Academic All-American of the Year.
Franklin is the third Hog drafted by Chicago, joining Kayla McKeon (2021) and Ashleigh Ellenwood (2016). She will join former Razorback Taylor Malham in Chicago, who was acquired by the Red Stars in 2023.
Podojil and Franklin will join Malham and Racing Louisville FC’s Katie Lund and Parker Goins in the NWSL.
Arkansas in the NWSL Draft
2023
Anna Podojil – No. 35, Round 3 (Washington Spirit)
Bea Franklin – No. 41, Round 3 (Chicago Red Stars)
2022
Kayla McKeon – No. 37, Round 3 (Chicago Red Stars)
2021
Parker Goins – No. 21, Round 3 (Racing Louisville FC)
2016
Ashleigh Ellenwood – No. 39, Round 4 (Chicago Red Stars)
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