Lo’eau LaBonta Bio
Loʻeau Kaiulani LaBonta (born March 18, 1993) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder for the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), which she captains, and the United States national team. LaBonta played college soccer for the Stanford Cardinal, where she won the 2011 national championship. She was drafted by Sky Blue FC in the 2015 NWSL College Draft before signing with FC Kansas City in 2016. After FC Kansas City folded, she went to the Utah Royals for three years before returning when the Kansas City Current began play in 2021. She helped lead the Current to the NWSL title game and was named to the NWSL Best XI in 2022.
Early Life and Background
Lo’eau Kaiulani LaBonta was born in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Growing up in a sports-oriented environment, she developed a passion for soccer at a young age. LaBonta’s early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for her future career. She attended Stanford University from 2011 to 2014, where she played college soccer and was part of the NCAA National Championship winning team in 2011. During her time at Stanford, she earned a degree in engineering, showcasing her academic prowess alongside her athletic talent.
Path to Soccer
LaBonta’s soccer journey began in earnest during her college years, where she honed her skills and gained valuable experience. After a successful college career, she was drafted by Sky Blue FC in the 2015 NWSL College Draft. Although her time with Sky Blue FC was short, it marked the beginning of her professional career. Following her stint at Sky Blue FC, LaBonta signed with FC Kansas City in 2016, where she quickly established herself as a key player.
Lo’eau LaBonta Career
Early Career (2015–2016)
LaBonta was drafted by Sky Blue FC in 2015 but made only six appearances before being waived. In May 2016, she signed with FC Kansas City, where she debuted against the Orlando Pride. Her tenacity and skill on the field earned her a regular starting position, and she became known for her ability to win possession from opponents. During her time with FC Kansas City, she began to gain recognition for her contributions to the team.
Breakthrough (2018–2020)
After FC Kansas City ceased operations, LaBonta joined the Utah Royals FC in 2018. She made an immediate impact, appearing in 16 games during her first season. In 2019, she scored her first goal for the Royals and was named to the NWSL Team of the Month in August. LaBonta’s performances helped solidify her reputation as a talented midfielder in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
LaBonta’s signature work includes her contributions to the Kansas City Current, where she became a pivotal player. In 2022, she finished the season with seven goals and four assists, earning a spot on the NWSL Best XI. Her leadership and performance helped guide the Current to the championship game, showcasing her growth as a player.
Lo’eau LaBonta Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Lo’eau LaBonta has received recognition for her outstanding performances on the field, including her selection to the NWSL Best XI in 2022.
Lo’eau LaBonta Awards Won
LaBonta’s accolades include being named to the NWSL Team of the Month multiple times and her selection to the NWSL Best XI in 2022, highlighting her impact in the league.
Lo’eau LaBonta Family
Lo’eau LaBonta is married to retired Sporting Kansas City player Roger Espinoza. They share a supportive relationship, both being involved in the soccer community.
Personal Life
In addition to her soccer career, LaBonta has a vibrant personality that shines through her elaborate goal celebrations, earning her the nickname “Celly Queen.” She gained attention for a viral celebration after scoring a penalty kick against Angel City FC in 2022. LaBonta also appeared in the reality television series “The Offseason,” which followed NWSL players training before the new season. Her unique background and experiences, including serving as a ball girl at a USWNT match in 2008, add depth to her story as a professional athlete.