Texas coach shares insights ahead of Women’s World Cup

University of Texas soccer coach Angela Kelly, an experienced World Cup player from Canada, is now leading the Longhorns team to new heights. With a roster full of talent, including the highly ranked Lexi Missimo, the Longhorns are poised for success. In addition, the team boasts several Youth National Team stars, adding to their formidable lineup.

The rarity of NCAA athletes appearing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup was evident in 2019, with only 11 athletes from the organization representing their home countries. Surprisingly, one of these remarkable individuals was Julia Grosso, a former UT women’s soccer star. Grosso not only secured a spot on the Canadian roster but also clinched gold for her country at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, making history in the sport. Grosso’s college coach was none other than Angela Kelly, who herself had proudly represented Canada during the women’s soccer boom.

Angela Kelly’s journey began at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where she played alongside legendary figures such as Mia Hamm, Tisha Venturini, and Kristine Lilly, all of whom were prominent members of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Kelly recalls the unique experience of facing her own roommates on the field, as they competed for their respective nations while still sharing the bond of friendship and camaraderie.

Having left her own World Cup days behind, Angela Kelly now focuses on nurturing young stars who can follow in her footsteps and seize the opportunities she helped create. She admires the current generation and acknowledges their potential, stating that she would switch places with any of them without hesitation. These young athletes are not only gaining sponsorships but also challenging corporations to support women’s soccer, highlighting their impressive skills, education, and success both on and off the field.

One outstanding example of a former player making a mark is Julia Grosso, who currently plays as a midfielder at Juventus in Italy and has established herself as a brand. Angela Kelly recognizes that corporations are beginning to understand the attractiveness and intelligence of these athletes, as well as their achievements in the field of play. As the women’s game gains more attention, the support and recognition for these athletes continue to grow.

For those eager to witness the thrilling action of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, FOX 7 Austin and FOX Sports provide comprehensive coverage. Additionally, fans can catch the Longhorns in action as they face Texas A&M Corpus Christi on the UT campus on August 12. The stage is set for Angela Kelly and her talented team to continue making waves in the world of soccer, with their sights set on achieving remarkable success.