Bea Franklin Bio
Elizabeth Franklin is an American professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder for Chicago Stars FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She began her college soccer career at the University of Notre Dame before transferring to the University of Arkansas, where she also played basketball. Franklin was drafted by the Chicago Red Stars in the 2024 NWSL Draft and has made significant contributions to her team, including notable performances during her rookie season.
Early Life and Background
Elizabeth Franklin was born on October 4, 2000, in Seattle, Washington. Growing up, she was actively involved in sports, playing club soccer for Crossfire ECNL. In addition to soccer, Franklin participated in tennis and basketball. She attended Seattle Preparatory School, where she excelled in soccer, leading her team to three Seattle Metro Championship titles and a Washington State Championship title in 2015. During her time at Seattle Prep, she scored 59 goals and provided 26 assists, earning accolades such as the 2018–19 Washington State Gatorade Player of the Year and the Seattle Times Player of the Year.
Path to Soccer
Franklin’s early exposure to soccer and her impressive high school performance paved the way for her collegiate career. She started playing soccer for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in 2019, where she made an immediate impact. In her freshman year, she played in 15 games, starting four, and scored her first college goal against Wake Forest. After a year at Notre Dame, Franklin transferred to the University of Arkansas, where she continued to excel in soccer and also joined the women’s basketball team for her final year of college.
Bea Franklin Career
Early Career (2019–2023)
Franklin’s college career began with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, where she played for one season before moving to the Arkansas Razorbacks. At Arkansas, she played in 18 games during her first season, scoring five goals and accumulating significant playing time. In her senior year, she led the Razorbacks in goals, assists, and points, receiving multiple accolades, including SEC Midfielder of the Year and All-SEC First Team honors.
Breakthrough (2024–Present)
Franklin’s professional career began when she was drafted by the Chicago Red Stars in the 2024 NWSL Draft. She signed her first professional contract on March 13, 2024, and made her debut on March 29, 2024. In her rookie season, she made 16 appearances and scored her first professional goal on September 1, 2024. Despite facing challenges, including a one-game suspension, Franklin’s performance helped her team reach the playoffs. In her second season, she re-signed with the Chicago Stars through 2027 and scored a crucial goal in a match against the Orlando Pride.
Notable Works and Milestones
Elizabeth Franklin’s signature achievements include being named SEC Midfielder of the Year and earning spots on the All-SEC First Team and USC All-America Second Team. Her transition from college to professional soccer has been marked by significant contributions to the Chicago Stars FC, showcasing her talent and determination.
Bea Franklin Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Elizabeth Franklin has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during her time at the University of Arkansas, where she was recognized for her outstanding performance on the field.
Bea Franklin Awards Won
Elizabeth Franklin has achieved notable awards, including SEC Midfielder of the Year and selections to the All-SEC First Team and USC All-America Second Team, highlighting her impact in collegiate soccer.
Bea Franklin Family
Elizabeth Franklin is the daughter of Jesse Franklin IV, who was a competitive rower at the University of Washington and was inducted into the university’s hall of fame in 1999. She has a brother, Jesse Franklin V, who was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the 2020 MLB draft.
Personal Life
Elizabeth Franklin maintains a private personal life, focusing on her professional soccer career. As a dedicated athlete, she has balanced her commitments to soccer and basketball during her college years, showcasing her versatility and athleticism.