FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – As the USL Super League wraps up its inaugural campaign, recognition for the league’s top individual contributions comes into focus. The Young Player of the Year Award honors the most outstanding player under the age of 23, and out of 42 eligible players across the league, three Fort Lauderdale United FC standouts have emerged as strong contenders.
Taylor Smith – Midfielder – 17 Years Old
Midfielder Taylor Smith has not only been a key contributor for Fort Lauderdale United FC – she’s also made history. Earlier this season, Smith became the first player in USL Super League history to move from an academy contract to a professional deal, making her the youngest player to sign a pro contract in league history. On the field, Smith leads all U-23 players in matches played (26) and minutes played (1,851), while ranking third in passes completed (406) and seventh in chances created (9). She has started 21 of Fort Lauderdale United’s 27 matches and has been a steady presence in the midfield for a club just one result away from clinching a postseason berth.
Kiara Locklear – Forward – 22 Years Old
Forward Kiara Locklear joined Fort Lauderdale United just before the midway point of the season, and quickly became a vital part of the club’s attacking unit. Through 15 appearances and 13 starts, Locklear has emerged as one of the league’s most dangerous young attackers. The Lipscomb standout leads all U-23 players in goals (5) and assists (4), while ranking T-2nd in chances created (14) and 4th in minutes played (1,156). Despite joining midseason, Locklear ranks third on the team in combined goals and assists (9), trailing only Addie McCain (12) and Jasmine Hamid (11), with roughly half the number of starts. Her pace, production and presence in the final third have made her an instrumental piece of Fort Lauderdale’s attack. Locklear will be a key figure once again as the club looks to secure a playoff berth Saturday evening against Spokane Zephyr FC.
Laurel Ansbrow – Defender – 22 Years Old
Defender Laurel Ansbrow joined Fort Lauderdale United FC ahead of the second half of the season, and immediately made an impact. The center back became a key part of a back line that battled injuries down the stretch, stepping in with consistency and composure. Ansbrow arrived in South Florida after a full collegiate campaign with Wake Forest, where she started 23 matches and logged over 2,000 minutes, including a National Championship appearance. Since making her professional debut with FTL UTD, she has started all 14 matches and played every minute – a testament to her reliability and fitness. Among players under the age of 23, Ansbrow leads the league in passes completed (560), ranks tied for 2nd in assists (2), and sits 3rd in minutes played (1,260). She’s also earned Team of the Month honors twice (February and March) in just her first three months as a pro. Ansbrow’s consistency and presence on the back line will be critical once again as Fort Lauderdale United looks to secure a playoff berth Saturday evening against Spokane Zephyr FC.
