Introduction to a New Era in Women’s Soccer
A Historic Moment for Women’s Professional Soccer
A 14-year-old made history when she became the nation’s youngest ever professional women’s soccer player.
FILE-McKenna Whitham #17 poses for a portrait during NJ/NY Gotham FC NWSL Media Day on January 27, 2025 in the Brooklyn Borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/NWSL via Getty Images)
McKenna Whitham entered the field as a substitute in the remaining minutes of NJ/NY Gotham FC’s match against the Seattle Reign, which ended in a 1-1 draw in the opening matchday of the 2025 National Women’s Soccer League season.
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“Thank you for the opportunity @GothamFC and @NWSL…I am excited for this year and it’s a dream come true!”, Whitham posted on X on March16 after the match.
Who is McKenna Whitham?
The Backstory of a Rising Star
The backstory:
Mckenna “Mak” Whitham signed a four-year contract with NJ/NY Gotham FC in July 2024, which became effective on Jan. 1, 2025. Whitham was also the youngest athlete to sign a name, image and likeness (NIL) contract with Nike.
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“I am really excited to sign and begin my professional career with Gotham FC,” said Whitham in a release from NJ/NY Gotham FC last year. “Gotham FC is a great place for me to continue to push myself as a player. I can’t wait to get to work and to continue to grow as a player with the great player, coaches and staff at Gotham FC.”
The California native is homeschooled and plays for Slammers FC HB Køge, a competitive club in the southern part of the state, and she’s a member of the U.S. Under-15 youth national team.
According to The Athletic, McKenna has trained with NWSL clubs, including Gotham, the Kansas City Current and the Washington Spirit. She was also invited to train with LAFC MLS Next’s 2010 Boys Academy team.
Source of the Information
The Source: Information for this story was provided by Olympics.com, a NJ/NY Gotham FC release, and The Athletic. This story was reported from Washington, D.C.
Conclusion
The emergence of McKenna Whitham as the youngest professional women’s soccer player in the US marks a significant milestone in the sport. Her dedication, talent, and passion for soccer are an inspiration to many young athletes. As she begins her professional career, fans and supporters alike are eager to see her growth and the impact she will have on the sport.
FAQs
About McKenna Whitham and Her Achievement
- How old is McKenna Whitham?
- McKenna Whitham is 14 years old.
- What team does McKenna Whitham play for?
- McKenna Whitham plays for NJ/NY Gotham FC.
- What is notable about McKenna Whitham’s contract with Nike?
- McKenna Whitham is the youngest athlete to sign a name, image, and likeness (NIL) contract with Nike.
- What are McKenna Whitham’s educational arrangements?
- McKenna Whitham is homeschooled.
- What national team is McKenna Whitham a part of?
- McKenna Whitham is a member of the U.S. Under-15 youth national team.
