When Ruby Mace arrived at Everton in the summer of 2025, few could have predicted just how quickly she would become the heartbeat of the Toffees' backline. Now, the 22-year-old England international has earned a nomination for the WSL Player of the Season award—a remarkable achievement in what has been a challenging debut campaign at Goodison Park.

Mace finds herself in elite company, competing against the league's top scorer Khadija Shaw, Manchester City standout Kerstin Casparij, and her former Toffee teammate Jess Park. The full list of nominees also includes Kirsty Hanson, Olivia Holdt, Alyssa Thompson, and Alessia Russo, but Everton fans have a crucial role to play in tipping the scales in Mace's favor.

Stepping into the heart of defense for a team navigating injuries, managerial changes, and the pressure of their first season at Goodison Park, Mace has been a beacon of consistency. She has already made 23 appearances, forming a formidable partnership with Martina Fernandez while showcasing her exceptional ball distribution and willingness to do the gritty work that often goes unnoticed.

Though the Toffees currently sit eighth with just two games remaining, Mace's performances have been a silver lining. Originally an Arsenal academy product, she has earned multiple Player of the Match honors this season, and many believe she is destined to return to her preferred midfield role once club captain Megan Finnigan is back to full fitness. For now, though, Mace continues to shine in defense, and with your vote, she could add a Player of the Season crown to her growing list of accolades.