Intense emotions rushed through Gotham FC defender Lilly Reale when she was announced as this year’s Rookie of the Year Wednesday night at the NWSL’s annual awards ceremony.

Excitement. Pride. Disbelief.

But Reale’s nerves settled as she made her way onto the stage and locked eyes with her best friend and longtime teammate, Ryan Campbell, who presented her the award.

Gotham FC defender Lilly Reale receives a pass during the second half of their game against Racing Louisville FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium earlier this season. Lucas Boland-Imagn Images

“It was definitely an unreal moment,” Reale told The Post moments after receiving the award. “I was not really expecting it.”

Reale beat out the two other finalists, Seattle Reign winger Maddie Dahlien and Angel City forward Riley Tie

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