This article will take you on a chronological journey through the illustrious career of Meghan O’Hara, a dominant force in women’s soccer. We’ll delve into her achievements on the field, highlighting her impressive performance in both domestic and international competitions.
Early Days and Collegiate Success
O’Hara’s passion for soccer ignited at a young age, and her dedication led her to the prestigious Stanford University. During her time at Stanford, from 2006 to 2009, O’Hara left an undeniable mark on the program. She became a standout player, consistently excelling on the field.
O’Hara’s dominant presence at Stanford earned her numerous accolades, including a two-time Parade All-American designation. Her senior year was nothing short of spectacular. She shattered school records, scoring an astounding 26 goals and providing 13 assists, a feat that cemented her status as one of the best in Division I history. This remarkable performance garnered her the prestigious Hermann Trophy, an award given to the top collegiate soccer player in the country.
These achievements speak volumes about O’Hara’s exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.
A Professional Debut and Early Milestones in the WPS
O’Hara’s journey to professional soccer began in 2010 when she was drafted third overall by FC Gold Pride in the Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) draft.
Her first season was a dream come true; she helped her team win the WPS Championship. This victory marked the beginning of a promising career in professional soccer. After the WPS’s short-lived existence, she joined the Boston Breakers, where she continued to impress, making 32 appearances and scoring 10 goals. This period solidified her place as a key player in the women’s soccer landscape.
The Rise of the NWSL and O’Hara’s Continued Success
The establishment of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in 2013 brought a new chapter to O’Hara’s career. She joined the Sky Blue FC and quickly proved her worth as a valuable player. Her contributions on the field were undeniable, and she continued to make her mark on the league.
In 2015, she was the second-highest assister in the league, with 7 assists. She ended the season in fourth place on the all-time NWSL assists list and eighth in the all-time shot list.
O’Hara’s commitment to her craft continued to be evident in subsequent seasons, as she consistently played a vital role for her teams. She moved to the Utah Royals in 2018 and later to the Washington Spirit in 2021, where she continued to demonstrate her versatility, strong work ethic, and leadership qualities.
O’Hara’s Achievements on the International Stage
O’Hara’s journey to the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) began in 2009 when she earned her first call-up to the training camp. Over the years, she climbed through the ranks of the USWNT youth teams, showcasing her exceptional talent and commitment to the sport.
O’Hara’s breakthrough moment came in 2012 when she made her international debut as a defender during the CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament. She played every minute of the USWNT’s run to Olympic glory, helping the team secure a gold medal.
O’Hara’s contributions to the USWNT have been significant. She helped the team achieve world cup victories in 2015 and 2019. Her commitment to the team has been unwavering, and her contributions have been invaluable to the team’s success.
O’Hara’s journey has been one of dedication, perseverance, and sheer talent. Her impressive career is a testament to her passion for the sport and her commitment to reaching the highest levels of competition. We are sure to see more incredible achievements from this talented player in the future.
