Justina Gaynor Bio
Justina Gabrielle Gaynor (born December 21, 2001) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a defender for Lexington SC of the USL Super League. She played college soccer for the Butler Bulldogs and the Michigan State Spartans and was named Big Ten Midfielder of the Year in 2023. She is the sister of soccer player Celia Gaynor.
Early Life and Background
Justina Gaynor was born in Shelby Township, Michigan, to Paul and Rita Gaynor. She is one of three children in her family, with her older sister Celia also pursuing a career in soccer. Growing up, Justina was active in sports, participating in both soccer and basketball at Notre Dame Preparatory. Her early exposure to soccer came through club play with the Nationals Development Academy, where she achieved significant success, winning three US Youth Soccer national titles.
Path to Soccer
Justina Gaynor began her collegiate soccer career with the Butler Bulldogs during the 2020 season, which was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In her first season, she played all 12 games and scored two goals. Following her time at Butler, she transferred to Michigan State University alongside her sister Celia. At Michigan State, she quickly established herself as a key player, starting 11 of 17 games in her first season and scoring two goals. Her performance continued to improve, and she became a standout player in her junior year, starting all 23 games and contributing four goals and two assists while helping the team secure their first outright regular-season title in the Big Ten Conference.
Justina Gaynor Career
Early Career (2020–2024)
Justina Gaynor’s early career was marked by her successful collegiate tenure at Michigan State University. In her senior season in 2023, she started all 22 games, leading her team in outfield minutes and achieving a career-high of six goals and 12 assists. Her contributions were pivotal in leading Michigan State to the NCAA tournament, where she scored a crucial penalty in a victory over Harvard, helping the team reach the third round for the first time in history. Her outstanding performance earned her recognition as first-team All-Big Ten and the Big Ten Midfielder of the Year.
Breakthrough (2025)
Justina Gaynor transitioned to professional soccer in 2025 when she signed her first contract with Chicago Stars FC. After a successful preseason trial, she joined the team on March 12, 2025. Although she initially played as a midfielder, she adapted to a defensive role. She made her professional debut shortly after signing, coming on as a substitute in the season opener against the Orlando Pride. However, her time with Chicago was brief, as she mutually agreed to terminate her contract on July 1, 2025.
Notable Works and Milestones
Following her stint with Chicago Stars, Justina Gaynor signed with Lexington SC on July 8, 2025. She debuted for the club on August 23, 2025, demonstrating her resilience and commitment to her professional career.
Justina Gaynor Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Justina Gaynor has received notable recognition, including her selection as the Big Ten Midfielder of the Year in 2023, highlighting her impact on the field during her collegiate career.
Justina Gaynor Awards Won
Justina Gaynor’s achievements include being named first-team All-Big Ten multiple times during her collegiate career, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport.
Justina Gaynor Family
Justina Gaynor comes from a supportive family, with her parents, Paul and Rita Gaynor, playing a significant role in her upbringing and athletic development. Her sister, Celia Gaynor, has also pursued a career in soccer, further emphasizing the family’s athletic background.
Personal Life
Information regarding Justina Gaynor’s personal life outside of soccer is limited. However, her commitment to the sport and her achievements reflect her dedication and passion for soccer.