Carson Pickett Bio
Carson Leighann Pickett (born September 15, 1993) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a left back for Denver Summit FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She is an advocate for limb difference awareness and was born without a left forearm and hand. Pickett played college soccer for the Florida State Seminoles before being drafted by Seattle Reign FC in 2016. She received NWSL Best XI honors twice while playing for the North Carolina Courage in 2021 and 2022. Pickett has also played for the NWSL’s Racing Louisville FC and the Australian club Brisbane Roar FC. She made two appearances for the United States national team in 2022, becoming the first player with a limb disability to play for the team.
Early Life and Background
Carson Pickett was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and raised in Fleming Island, Florida, near Jacksonville. She attended St. Johns Country Day School, where she excelled in soccer, winning three state championships with her team. In 2012, she was recognized as the Gatorade Girls Soccer Player of the Year for Florida and also received the Florida Times-Union First Coast Player of the Year award. Pickett’s unique condition, being born without a left forearm and hand, has been a significant aspect of her life and career, often highlighted in media coverage.
Path to Soccer
Pickett’s soccer journey began in her youth, where she developed her skills and passion for the game. After high school, she attended Florida State University from 2012 to 2015, where she played for the Florida State Seminoles. During her college career, she was a four-year starting defender and played a crucial role in leading the Seminoles to their first NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship in 2014, anchoring a defense that did not concede any goals throughout the tournament. Her performance in college soccer set the stage for her professional career.
Carson Pickett Career
Early Career (2016-2017)
Carson Pickett was selected by Seattle Reign FC as the fourth overall pick in the 2016 NWSL College Draft. Her debut for the club came during the season opener against Sky Blue FC on April 17, 2016. In October 2017, she was loaned to Brisbane Roar for the 2017–18 W-League season, where she scored her first professional goal on November 10, 2017, in a match against Western Sydney Wanderers. Pickett’s early career was marked by her adaptability and skill on the field, which helped her gain recognition in the league.
Breakthrough (2021-2022)
In February 2021, Pickett was traded to North Carolina Courage, where she made a significant impact over her two-year tenure. She contributed 11 assists, leading the NWSL in assists in 2022, and was named to the NWSL Best XI twice during her time with the team. Her performance earned her a nomination for NWSL Defender of the Year, solidifying her status as one of the league’s top defenders.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Carson Pickett has achieved numerous milestones, including her recognition as an NWSL Best XI player and her groundbreaking appearances for the United States national team. Her advocacy for limb difference awareness has also made her a role model for many, inspiring individuals with disabilities.
Carson Pickett Award Nominations
Carson Pickett has received several nominations throughout her career, particularly during her time with North Carolina Courage, where she was nominated for NWSL Defender of the Year and recognized as part of the NWSL Best XI.
Carson Pickett Awards Won
While specific awards won are not detailed in the provided information, Carson Pickett has been recognized for her outstanding performances in the NWSL, including her selections to the NWSL Best XI.
Carson Pickett Family
Information regarding Carson Pickett’s family is not publicly available, as her parents and other family details have not been disclosed.
Personal Life
Carson Pickett was previously in a relationship with her Racing Louisville FC teammate and former New Zealand international Abby Erceg. Pickett’s advocacy work and her journey as a professional athlete continue to inspire many, particularly those with disabilities.
