Sophia Olivia Smith, an accomplished American professional soccer player, has established herself as an industry trailblazer. Currently playing forward for Portland Thorns FC of NWSL and representing her national team with distinction, we follow Sophia through her early years to today as an inspirational force in American soccer.
Early Years and Family Background
Sophia Olivia Smith was born August 10, 2000 to Kenny and Mollie Smith and received an enjoyable upbringing in Windsor near Fort Collins in Colorado with both of her parents, two older sisters Gabrielle and Savannah as well as an uncle named Ken. Smith came from an athletic family: his father played basketball at University of Wyoming while Savannah is currently the all-time leading scorer of basketball at University of Northern Colorado.
Smith’s own journey in soccer began at a tender age, playing in co-ed soccer and subsequently with the Timnath Twisters and Arsenal Colorado. Smith continued her success during her high school years at Fossil Ridge High School in Fort Collins by excelling at soccer, earning accolades from the varsity soccer team. However, her talents extended far beyond soccer alone – she also contributed significantly to Fossil Ridge’s varsity basketball squad.
Gaining Recognition and Early Achievements
Sophia’s soccer talent was recognized when she made the U-14 national team at age 14. Subsequently, due to her dedication and hard work she earned a spot on the senior national team at just 16 years of age! Her journey in soccer gained momentum, and she was chosen as the #1 overall pick in the 2020 NWSL College Draft, a testament to her immense potential and abilities.
In the memorable year of 2022, Sophia Smith was awarded the title of NWSL Most Valuable Player (MVP). She was also honored as the US Soccer Female Player of the Year, a prestigious award acknowledging her dominance both domestically and internationally. Her impressive record and dedicated play helped Portland Thorns FC secure the 2022 NWSL Championship title.
Sophia’s Personal Life
Off the field, Sophia’s life is filled with love and mutual support. She’s in a relationship with Michael Wilson, a professional football player. The couple met while attending Stanford University, and their relationship, which started in January 2019, has endured regardless of any individual career challenges or shifts that occurred between then and now.
Their long-distance relationship began in 2020 when Smith left Stanford University to join the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), while Wilson continued playing football in Northern California. Despite the distance and their individual career obstacles, Smith and Wilson have continued to support each other. Wilson’s recent draft into the NFL by the Arizona Cardinals in 2023 means the couple will no longer have to endure a long-distance relationship.
Parental Support
Kenny and Mollie Smith have played an invaluable role in Sophia’s soccer career, providing her with constant encouragement and faith that her dreams can be pursued relentlessly, even when obstacles come her way. Without doubt, their love and support contributed immensely to Sophia’s success on the soccer pitch.
Conclusion
From her early beginnings to her soaring achievements, Sophia Olivia Smith has established herself as a remarkable talent in women’s soccer. Sophia’s journey demonstrates her tireless pursuit of excellence, underpinned by the unfaltering support from family and loved ones. As she pushes boundaries in soccer, Sophia serves as an exemplary role model to aspiring athletes around the globe.
