Alana Cook

Alana Cook is an accomplished American professional soccer player, currently playing as a center back for the Kansas City Current in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the United States national team. Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, she was raised in a soccer-loving family, with her father introducing her to the sport at a young age. Cook’s early passion for soccer led her to excel at The Pennington School, where she helped her team secure regional and state titles, earning accolades such as New Jersey Prep Player of the Year and NSCAA High School Scholar Player of the Year.

After a stellar collegiate career at Stanford University, where she captained the team and was named Pac-12 Defender of the Year, Cook made the bold decision to forgo the NWSL College Draft in favor of pursuing opportunities in Europe. This decision paid off when she signed with Paris Saint-Germain, where she gained invaluable experience playing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Her journey continued with OL Reign, where she was instrumental in the team’s success, helping them win the NWSL Shield in 2022 and earning a spot on the league’s Best XI.

Cook’s international career began with the U.S. youth national teams, where she captained the under-17 and under-23 squads. Her dedication and skill led to her first senior national team call-up in 2019, and she was selected for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad. Throughout her career, Cook has faced challenges, including the pressure of competing at the highest levels, but she has embraced these experiences as opportunities for growth and development.

Alana Cook’s impact on women’s soccer is profound, as she continues to inspire young athletes with her journey from a passionate child to a professional player on the world stage. Her commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams. As she navigates her career, Cook remains focused on her goals, eager to contribute to the growth of women’s soccer and to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.