Making The Team – US Women’s National Soccer Team

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNST) is made up of 23 diverse women. Each player made her way onto the team through a lifelong commitment to soccer, and many had to overcome a series of unique challenges to be associated with the best of the best, says the U.S. Soccer Development Academy – the official training program of the U.S. National Soccer Teams providing resources, education and support for clubs nationwide.

Getting on a prestigious professional team such as the USWNT, means each player started soccer at a young age, took every advantage to be a part of distinguished soccer teams at college prep boarding schools, or with affiliated U.S. Soccer club teams.

Not every player on the USWNT made every team she auditioned for – despite this, each member kept auditioning until she was accepted onto the right team. Individuals interested in pursuing a lifelong commitment to soccer, and one day playing for the USWNT, must continue to audition for teams, keep up with practice, conditioning and work for recognition.

U.S. Soccer Development Academy, provides a list of affiliated club teams that follow the educational and training principles of national teams. The accredited clubs and programs, in addition to involvement on local teams at college prep boarding schools, help groom young athletes for professional careers in soccer.

One member of the USWNT – Mallory Pugh – has made headlines recently as a soccer prodigy. At only seventeen years old, the high school student has achieved one of the most distinguished positions in the professional world of soccer, as a member of the women’s national team.

Online Soccer Academy, a website providing training and resources for soccer, says if you can’t get on a club team keep playing on teams at college prep boarding schools and throughout college to get recognition. “College soccer is a big step in the ladder for making the jump to pro soccer. Typically pro coaches scout the best college players on the best college teams.”

However, not everyone gets scouted or signed after college. Online Soccer Academy suggests these players, “Attend a paid pro try out... Go on a team's website and search for when their try outs are and sign up for them.”

Being a part of a successful team at college prep boarding schools, is a great way to help cultivate your passion for the game, sharpen skills, and build strength for college team participation. Young players on these teams are better equipped for the challenges that lie ahead while pursuing a professional soccer career as a member of the USWNT.  

Nicole Donaldson is an academic writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Wasatch Academy. Follow on Twitter.