As the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 ignites Switzerland, and England’s Lionesses power into the quarter-finals where they’ll face Sweden this week, we take a look at a significant, yet sometimes unsung, influence on their success: the incredible foundation built through US college soccer.
Here at FirstPoint USA, we've long championed the unparalleled opportunities American universities offer aspiring female footballers. The blend of high-level athletic competition and world-class academic pursuits creates a unique development pathway, and it's a path many of England's brightest stars, and even their esteemed coach, have walked – or rather, sprinted down!
The American Dream: A Launchpad for Lionesses Legends
We shine a spotlight on some of the phenomenal talents who took their game to a new level across the pond, often under the tutelage of one of the most successful coaches in collegiate sports history, Anson Dorrance, the legendary head coach of the University of North Carolina (UNC) women's soccer program:
- Lucy Bronze (University of North Carolina, 2009): A true pioneer, Lucy Bronze made history in 2009 by becoming the first British player to win the coveted NCAA National Championship. Her time at UNC, under Dorrance's discerning eye and competitive "Cauldron" philosophy, was instrumental in shaping the formidable defender and attacking threat we know today. It's clear her foundational years in the US collegiate system laid the groundwork for a career that has seen her become one of the most decorated players in the world, a multiple Champions League winner, and a vital cog in the Lionesses machine. Dorrance was key in recognizing her immense talent and bringing her into the Tar Heel fold.
- Alessia Russo (University of North Carolina, 2017-2019): A powerhouse forward, Alessia Russo's time at UNC was nothing short of spectacular. In just 57 appearances, she netted an impressive 28 goals, showcasing her predatory instinct in front of goal. Her talent was widely recognized, earning her a spot as a Hermann Trophy semi-finalist and the 2019 ACC Tournament MVP. Dorrance has even spoken of the initial scouting "mishap" that almost led to them missing out on Russo, highlighting the keen eye and persistence that ultimately brought her and her incredible talent to Chapel Hill. These accolades speak volumes about the level of competition and development she experienced, preparing her for the demands of professional and international football.
- Lotte Wubben-Moy (University of North Carolina, 2017-2019): Another Tar Heel success story, Lotte Wubben-Moy was a defensive stalwart during her three seasons at UNC, making 62 appearances and being an ever-present force for two years straight. Her consistency and resilience developed in the competitive NCAA environment have been crucial to her rise as a top-tier defender for both club and country. Dorrance's recruitment efforts were instrumental in bringing both Russo and Wubben-Moy, two key Lionesses, to the same formidable collegiate program.
- Sarina Wiegman (University of North Carolina, 1989): And it's not just the players! The tactical mastermind behind the Lionesses' recent triumphs, Head Coach Sarina Wiegman, also has a US college soccer background. Back in 1989, she too won the NCAA National Championship with UNC, playing 24 games and scoring 6 goals. This direct experience under Anson Dorrance, who famously invited Wiegman to UNC after seeing her play in Europe, undoubtedly provided her with a unique understanding of the players' journey and the benefits of the American system. Dorrance's influence on Wiegman's early development and understanding of a winning culture is a thread that runs through her own coaching philosophy today.
The trio of Lionesses who have experienced the collegiate soccer pathway are proof that the United States offers an exceptional opportunity for female footballers to bridge the gap between youth football and the elite professional and international game. The world class facilities and training environment, the focus on both athletic and academic development, and the exposure to a highly competitive league against top talent from around the globe, are all invaluable. The profound impact of coaches like Anson Dorrance, with his unparalleled success and dedication to developing not just players but complete individuals, cannot be overstated.
Beyond England: A Pan-European Success Story
The impact of US college soccer isn't limited to the Lionesses. The NCAA system has been a breeding ground for talent across Europe, with numerous players gracing the collegiate pitches before going on to represent their nations at the highest level, including in past and present Euros.
Look at players like Janice Cayman (Belgium) who starred for Florida State University before becoming a centurion for her national team, or Laura Freigang (Germany) who honed her attacking prowess at Penn State University. Even players from the current Euros like Natalia Kuikka (Finland) from Florida State, and Gunnhildur Yrsa Jónsdóttir (Iceland) who played at Pepperdine, highlight the global reach and influence of the American collegiate system. These examples, amongst many others, demonstrate how the US college route provides a robust platform for international careers.
Your Journey Starts Here!
As the England team gets set for their Euro 2025 quarter-finals, let the success stories of Lucy Bronze, Alessia Russo, Lotte Wubben-Moy, and Sarina Wiegman serve as powerful inspiration. Their journeys highlight the immense opportunities that await talented female footballers in the United States.
At FirstPoint USA, we're dedicated to helping the next generation of female football stars from across the globe, unlock their potential through US college scholarships. Imagine developing your game in a professional-level environment, pursuing a world-class education, and setting yourself on a trajectory to become a professional and international player.
The American dream is alive and well for female footballers, and the Euro 2025 is a shining testament to its profound impact. If you're ready to write your own success story, get in touch with FirstPoint USA today and discover how a US college soccer scholarship could be the stepping stone to your international career!
