Ashlyn Harris is a distinguished former soccer player who made significant contributions to women’s soccer in the United States. She began her collegiate career at the University of North Carolina Tar Heels, where she played a pivotal role in securing three NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championships. Harris’s exceptional skills as a goalkeeper earned her numerous accolades, including being named the 2004 Gatorade Player of the Year and a four-time Parade Magazine All-American. Her college career set the stage for her professional journey, where she showcased her talent across various leagues.

Professionally, Harris played for several teams, including the Saint Louis Athletica, Washington Freedom, and Western New York Flash in Women’s Professional Soccer, as well as FCR 2001 Duisburg in Germany and Tyresö FF in Sweden. Notably, she was instrumental in the Flash’s victory in the 2011 WPS Championship, where her decisive penalty save clinched the title. Harris’s career continued to flourish in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where she played for Washington Spirit, Orlando Pride, and Gotham FC, consistently demonstrating her prowess as a top goalkeeper.

Harris’s international career with the United States women’s national team is equally impressive. She made her senior debut in 2013 and was part of the championship-winning squads at the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups. Her contributions to the national team were recognized as she earned multiple caps and played crucial matches, solidifying her status as a key player in women’s soccer history.

After a remarkable career, Harris announced her retirement from professional soccer in 2022. Beyond her athletic achievements, she has been an advocate for mental health awareness and women’s rights in sports. Harris’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of female athletes, and her impact on the game will be felt for years to come.