Written by Michael Lewis

Perhaps one of the biggest questions the Long Island Rough Riders women faced prior to the 2023 USL W League season was in goal.

Natalie Medugno answered that challenge with an exclamation point.

She was one of the reasons why the Rough Riders finished second in the Metropolitan Division with a 10-1-1 record while surrendering only 13 goals. The Rough Riders also qualified for the playoffs.

Medungo, one of the reasons for the squad’s success, was named the team’s rookie of the year.

“The goalkeeper position was something we were not secure on in pre-season, until Natalie joined us, and she did not disappoint,” head coach Matt Lannon said. “It was her first season with the team, and she rose to the occasion of being a key on the field. She played with confidence in the net and kept us in a number of games. She took control of the net throughout the season and that is on display now at Cornell.”

Through games of Thursday, Sept. 21, the sophomore has allowed only five goals in as many matches for the Big Red en route to a 2-0-3 record while compiling two clean sheets.

The 5-foot-8 Medugno starred for two years at Oceanside High School, earning All-Nassau County honors.

It should not be surprising that Medugno is good with her hands because she was a four-year basketball player in high school, earning All-Conference accolades.