OL Reign midfielder Kelcie Hedge has been ruled out of the National Women’s Soccer League Challenge Cup after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

She tore her ACL at a club training session on Monday. This was the rookie’s first professional season after being Reign’s ninth draft pick and signing a three-year deal in March.

Hedge did not feature in Reign’s first Challenge Cup match against Sky Blue FC and has expressed her disappointment at being ruled out.

She said: “This wasn’t the rookie season I dreamed of, but I know it will be more fulfilling than ever once I am back.

“I couldn’t be more ready to cheer on and support my teammates through the rest of the NWSL Challenge Cup. I know my God can move mountains and I am ready to engage in battle from this moment forward. I am so thankful to be going through this with this club and my incredible teammates.”

Reign’s head coach Farid Benstiti wished her a speedy recovery.

“I am very sad for Kelcie. She has been working hard all throughout our preseason in Montana and has helped us to be very competitive coming to the tournament," he said.

"We wish for a speedy recovery for her and look forward to doing what we can to help her come back even stronger than before.”

OL Reign’s next match in the tournament will take place tomorrow against Houston Dash.