“Protect Your Peace”
Sophia Smith (#22) is a forward for the Portland Thorns and the USWNT.
Sophia grew up in Fort Collings, CO and attended Stanford University where she won the National Championship in 2019. In her 2 seasons at Stanford, she scored 24 goals in 33 appearances. Sophia left college early to enter the 2020 NWSL Draft where she was drafted 1st overall by the Portland Thorns. Sophia and the Thorns won the 2022 NWSL Championship and Sophia had the game-winning goal; she was named MVP of the match and of the entire NWSL Season.
In November 2020, Sophia became the 1st Player born in the 2000's to appear for the USWNT. She was a part of the 2021 & 2022 She Believes Cup Championship teams and the 2022 CONCACAF Championship Team. Smith was named the 2022 US Soccer Player of the Year.
Off the field, Sophia loves reading, interior design, fashion and coffee. She is an aunt and loves to spend time with her niece and nephew at home in Colorado any chance she gets.
Do you have any rituals that you do before you compete?
I always have a matcha latte before the game and always make sure to take time to myself for some breathing practices to calm my energy but that’s really it!
What is a hidden talent that you have?
I don’t really have a hidden talent, but I consider myself pretty good at interior design.
Where are your favorite places in the world to travel and compete?
Favorite place to play is Providence Park in Portland Oregon and Wembley Stadium in London. I absolutely love anytime we get to travel to Italy to play, as it is one of my favorite places to travel to!
Funny story or interesting fact, and how it applies to you and your athlete journey.
My most proud soccer moment is winning the National championship with Stanford and winning the NWSL league championship with Portland as well as the league MVP.
An interesting fact about me is that I’ve never played on a soccer team with players my age, I’ve always and only ever played up with older players and that has helped me develop my game at a faster pace and constantly challenged me.
What does your personal quote mean to you?
“Protect Your Peace” – This quote is something I really try and live by with so many things going on in life that can often times feel overwhelming. I’m a big advocate for mental health.