Janine Sonis Bio
Janine Elizabeth Sonis (née Beckie; born August 20, 1994) is a professional soccer player who plays as a forward or a full-back for National Women’s Soccer League club Racing Louisville FC. Born in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, United States, she represents the Canada national team. Known for her versatility on the field, Sonis has made significant contributions to her teams both in club and international play.
Early Life and Background
Janine Sonis was born to Canadian parents in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. She attended Valor Christian High School, where she played on the varsity soccer team for four years. During her high school career, she earned the title of 2012 Gatorade Colorado Player of the Year, showcasing her talent early on. After high school, Sonis continued her education and soccer career at Texas Tech University, where she played for the Texas Tech Red Raiders from 2012 to 2015. During her time at the university, she became the all-time leading scorer for the women’s team, netting 57 career goals. In December 2015, she was recognized as Player of the Year by Dallas Soccer News for her outstanding performance.
Path to Soccer
Sonis began her professional career in 2013 when she signed with the Seattle Sounders Women in the USL W-League. This early experience helped her develop her skills and gain exposure in competitive environments. In 2016, she was selected eighth overall in the NWSL College Draft by the Houston Dash, marking her entry into the National Women’s Soccer League. Sonis made an immediate impact, scoring in her professional debut against the Chicago Red Stars on April 16, 2016. Her early achievements laid a strong foundation for her future in professional soccer.
Janine Sonis Career
Early Career (2016–2018)
After being drafted by the Houston Dash, Janine Sonis quickly established herself as a key player. During her time with the Dash from 2016 to 2017, she showcased her scoring ability and versatility on the field. In January 2018, she was traded to Sky Blue FC, where she made 15 appearances before departing the club later that year. Sonis’s career took a significant turn when she signed with Manchester City in August 2018. In her first season with the club, she scored eight goals in 15 games and contributed to the team’s success by winning two trophies: the FA League Cup and the FA Cup.
Breakthrough (2018–2022)
Sonis’s transfer to Manchester City marked a breakthrough in her career. She earned her first start in a UEFA Women’s Champions League game during the 2019–20 season and achieved her first hat-trick in the competition. Her performance solidified her reputation as a formidable player in women’s soccer. In April 2022, Sonis signed a three-year contract with Portland Thorns FC, returning to the NWSL after her successful stint in England. Unfortunately, she suffered an ACL injury during a pre-season game in March 2023, which sidelined her for the entire season. However, she made a triumphant return to the field for the Thorns’ 2024 season opener, scoring two goals in a match against the Kansas City Current.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Janine Sonis has achieved several milestones, including her participation in the 2016 and 2020 Summer Olympics, where she contributed to Canada’s bronze and gold medal victories, respectively. She has also represented Canada at various youth levels and made her senior international debut in 2014. In August 2024, Sonis was traded to Racing Louisville FC, where she signed a two-year contract extension through the 2026 season. Her first goal for Louisville came shortly after the trade, demonstrating her continued impact on the field.
Janine Sonis Award Nominations
Janine Sonis has received recognition for her contributions to soccer, including being named Player of the Year by Dallas Soccer News in 2015. Her performances at both the club and international levels have garnered attention and respect within the soccer community.
Janine Sonis Awards Won
Throughout her career, Janine Sonis has been part of teams that have won prestigious titles, including the FA League Cup and FA Cup with Manchester City, as well as the gold medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics with the Canada national team. Her achievements reflect her talent and dedication to the sport.
Janine Sonis Family
Janine Sonis is engaged to Ethan Sonis. She has a brother, Drew Beckie, who is also a professional soccer player for Atlético Ottawa. Sonis is known to be a co-owner of the League1 Ontario club Simcoe County Rovers FC, further demonstrating her commitment to the sport beyond her playing career.
Personal Life
Janine Sonis is a Christian and has been open about her faith. She announced her engagement to Ethan Sonis in September 2023, and they are set to marry in December 2024. Her personal and professional life reflects her dedication to soccer and her strong family values.
