Kelley O Hara: A Soccer Legend | Two-Time World Cup Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist:
Kelley O Hara (born August 4, 1988) is a highly accomplished American professional soccer player known for her exceptional skills as a wingback.
She currently shines on the field for Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and is a key player for the United States women’s national soccer team.
O’Hara boasts an impressive track record, being a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and an Olympic gold medalist.
Her journey in professional soccer includes stints with various clubs such as FC Gold Pride, Boston Breakers, Sky Blue FC, Utah Royals FC, Washington Spirit, and NJ/NY Gotham FC.
Early Life:
Born in Fayetteville, Georgia, near Atlanta, Kelley O’Hara grew up in Peachtree City and attended Starr’s Mill High School, where she excelled as a soccer player and earned several accolades for her remarkable performance.
With Irish heritage, O’Hara developed a passion for the sport from an early age and went on to play for club teams like the Peachtree City Lazers and AFC Lightning before joining the U.S. youth national teams.
College Career:
O’Hara continued her soccer journey at Stanford University, where she made a significant impact on the field.
As a standout player, she led the Stanford Cardinal women’s soccer team in scoring and contributed to the team’s success in reaching the College Cup.
Her senior year at Stanford was particularly outstanding, earning her the prestigious Hermann Trophy as collegiate soccer’s top player.
Club Career:
Kelley O’Hara’s professional club career began in the Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) league, where she played for FC Gold Pride and Boston Breakers.
After the WPS ceased operations, she continued her career in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), representing Sky Blue FC, Utah Royals FC, Washington Spirit, and currently NJ/NY Gotham FC.
International Success:
O’Hara’s journey in the United States women’s national soccer team has been equally impressive.
She has represented the nation in various youth national teams and earned her first senior national team cap in 2010.
O’Hara has been part of the U.S. team in multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups and the 2012 Olympics, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
She was instrumental in the team’s victories in the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups, earning her the honor of being a two-time world champion.
Podcast and Personal Life:
Off the field, Kelley O’Hara engages with fans and the sporting community through her podcast. Previously known as “Just Women’s Sports” and now rebranded as “The Players’ Pod.”
The podcast provides a platform for open and candid conversations about the lives of athletes, particularly female athletes.
Personal life-wise, O’Hara is one of the prominent LGBT athletes and has been open about her relationship with partner Kameryn Stanhouse. The couple got engaged on New Year’s Eve in 2022.
Honors and Accolades: Kelley O’Hara’s remarkable soccer career has earned her numerous accolades and honors.
Alongside her team successes, she has received individual recognition. This includes being named to the FIFA Women’s World XI in 2019, winning the Hermann Trophy, and being a finalist for the U.S. Soccer Young Female Athlete of the Year award.
Her contributions to the sport have solidified her place as one of the most talented and accomplished players in women’s soccer history.
Kelley Maureen O’Hara is undoubtedly an icon in women’s soccer, showcasing talent, leadership, and passion both on and off the field.
Her extraordinary achievements continue to inspire and pave the way for the next generation of athletes.