HOUSTON (Sept. 4, 2026) - Houston Dash rookie Kat Rader was named to the August Best XI of the Month, presented by Amazon Prime, the league announced today.
Rader scored from the penalty spot in Houston’s 1-1 draw against the Kansas City Current on Aug. 8 before recording her first professional brace in the Dash’s 5-0 victory over Chicago Stars FC on Aug. 19. Rader opened the scoring in the fifth minute against Chicago and added her second goal of the match in the 72nd minute, helping Houston match a club record with its largest margin of victory (five goals).
The 22-year-old has scored nine goals through her rookie campaign, tied for fifth in the league and leading all first-year players. She also leads the Dash in shots on goal (24) and chances created (32), while her 24 shots on target lead all NWSL rookies.
The Best XI selection marks Rader’s third monthly league honor of the 2026 season, following NWSL Rookie of the Month recognition in May and August. She joins teammate Kiki Van Zanten, who was named to the April Best XI of the Month, as the second Dash player selected to the league’s monthly Best XI this season. Rader is also the third player in club history to earn a monthly Best XI selection, joining Van Zanten and goalkeeper Jane Campbell, who was recognized in September and October 2023.
The Dash travel to Orlando to close their 9,000-mile road stretch on Sunday, Sept. 6 against the Orlando Pride. Fans can follow the action on the Roku Sports Channel starting at 6 p.m. CT or visit local Pub Partners to watch the match with fellow Dash fans. A full list of Pub Partners is available HERE. The team will return to Shell Energy Stadium on Sept. 12 to host Utah Royals FC for Noche Latina. Tickets for that match are available HERE.
