Aubrey Kingsbury Bio
Aubrey Renee Kingsbury (née Bledsoe; born November 20, 1991) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a goalkeeper for the Washington Spirit of the National Women’s Soccer League and the United States national team. A two-time NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year, she was named the Most Valuable Player of the Spirit’s victory in the 2021 NWSL Championship. Kingsbury has established herself as a prominent figure in women’s soccer, known for her remarkable skills and leadership on the field.
Early Life and Background
Aubrey Kingsbury was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Paul and Char Bledsoe. She attended Merwin Elementary and Amelia Middle School before moving on to St. Ursula Academy. At St. Ursula Academy, she was a member of the state championship soccer team in 2007 and 2008, which marked the beginning of her journey in competitive soccer. Her early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for her future career as a professional athlete.
Following her high school career, Kingsbury continued her education and soccer development at Wake Forest University, where she played for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. She graduated with a degree in health and exercise science, along with minors in chemistry and biology. During her time at Wake Forest, she started all her games and was named co-captain in her senior year, showcasing her leadership abilities and commitment to the sport.
Path to Soccer
Kingsbury began her professional soccer career in 2014 when she signed with the Los Angeles Blues in the USL W-League. This opportunity allowed her to prepare for a move to Europe, where she joined IK Grand Bodø in Norway. During her time with Bodø, she made 11 appearances, gaining valuable experience in a competitive environment.
In 2015, Kingsbury signed with Sky Blue FC as a discovery player. Although she primarily served as a backup goalkeeper, she continued to develop her skills and gain insight into the professional game. Her subsequent loan to Fortuna Hjørring in Denmark allowed her to compete in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, further enhancing her experience on the international stage. This period marked a significant transition as she began to establish herself in the broader soccer industry.
Aubrey Kingsbury Career
Early Career (2014–2017)
Kingsbury’s early career saw her transition from European leagues back to the United States, where she was selected by Orlando Pride in the 2015 NWSL expansion draft. After a brief stint with the Pride, she joined Sydney FC for the 2017–2018 W-League season, where she contributed to the team’s success and gained recognition for her performances.
In January 2018, Kingsbury was traded to the Washington Spirit, where she would become a key player. Her impact was immediate, as she was named Player of the Week by the NWSL Media Association shortly after joining the team. Kingsbury’s ability to make crucial saves and lead her team on the field quickly established her as a standout goalkeeper in the league.
Breakthrough (2018–Present)
Kingsbury’s breakthrough came during the 2019 NWSL season when she was voted the NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year after leading the league with 86 saves. Her performances solidified her reputation as one of the top goalkeepers in women’s soccer. In 2021, she reached new heights by being named the Most Valuable Player of the NWSL Championship, where she played a pivotal role in the Spirit’s victory over the Chicago Red Stars.
In addition to her club success, Kingsbury received her first senior call-up to the United States national team in 2019. She has since been included in various training camps and rosters, showcasing her talent on the international stage. Her commitment to the national team further demonstrates her dedication to the sport and her growth as a player.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kingsbury’s signature achievements include being a two-time NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year in 2019 and 2021, as well as her recognition as the Most Valuable Player in the 2021 NWSL Championship. Her contributions to the Washington Spirit and the United States national team have made her a respected figure in women’s soccer.
Aubrey Kingsbury Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Aubrey Kingsbury has received several nominations for her outstanding performances as a goalkeeper. Her consistent excellence on the field has garnered attention from fans and analysts alike, solidifying her status as a leading player in the NWSL.
Aubrey Kingsbury Awards Won
Kingsbury has won notable awards, including the NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year in both 2019 and 2021. These accolades reflect her skill, dedication, and impact on the game.
Aubrey Kingsbury Family
Aubrey Kingsbury is married to Matt Kingsbury. She has a twin sister, Amber Bledsoe, who is also a goalkeeper and attended Brown University. The support from her family has played a significant role in her journey as an athlete.
Personal Life
Kingsbury is a Christian and values her faith as an integral part of her life. She married Matt Kingsbury in December 2021 and began playing under her married name in January 2022. Her personal life reflects her commitment to both her family and her professional career.