Forward Lia Howard has been named MVP of the Long Island Rough Riders women’s team for the 2024 USL W League season.
Howard scored 10 goals in 11 matches, good for 14th place in the league.
“She was consistent from everything we did this year,” head coach Matt Lannon said. “From the first practice all the way to the playoff games, she was so consistent. I could tell she was really committed this year and really wanted to put a name out there.”
The Massapequa, N.Y. native certainly did, helping the Rough Riders reach the Eastern Conference semifinals. She scored a goal and assisted on another in Long Island’s 2-1 victory over Eagles FC in the Eastern Conference semifinals in Mechanicsburg, Pa. on July 5.
Her most memorable matches came during the regular season.
Lannon brought up the 4-4 draw at Paisley Athletic FC on June 10, in which Howard scored an important goal from outside the penalty area en route to an important away point.
“Just a big-time player. Big time moments,” Lannon said.
Howard also was a team captain.
“She really led by example, personality and consistency,” Lannon said. “Just irreplaceable at times.”
The Rough Riders captured the Metropolitan Division crown with a 10-0-2 mark and 69 points. They outscored their opposition in the regular season, 69-9.
Through games of Sunday, Sept. 15, Howard has recorded a goal and an assist in seven appearances for the University of Illinois.
Howard is eligible to return to the Rough Riders for the 2025 USL W League season, if she so desires.
The Rough Riders women will return to action next May.
Stay updated with the latest on the Rough Riders by visiting www.LIRoughRiders.com.