Phoebe McClernon Bio
Phoebe Lynch McClernon is an American professional soccer player who plays as a defender for the Seattle Reign of the National Women’s Soccer League. Born on December 13, 1997, in West Chester, Pennsylvania, McClernon has made significant contributions to her teams at various levels, showcasing her skills and dedication to the sport throughout her career. Her journey from youth soccer to professional leagues highlights her commitment and talent in the game.
Early Life and Background
Phoebe McClernon grew up in West Chester, Pennsylvania, where she began her soccer journey. She captained her high school team at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur, demonstrating leadership and skill from a young age. Additionally, she played club soccer for Penn Fusion Academy and was a member of the Region I Olympic Development Program, which provided her with early exposure to competitive soccer and helped shape her future in the sport.
Path to Soccer
McClernon attended the University of Virginia, where she played college soccer for the Virginia Cavaliers from 2016 to 2019. During her freshman year, she participated in all 22 games, although she started only four. By her sophomore year, she became a regular starter and earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors in each of her final three seasons. In 2019, she was part of a strong defensive unit that achieved seven consecutive shutouts in conference play, solidifying her reputation as a talented defender.
Phoebe McClernon Career
Early Career (2020)
Phoebe McClernon’s professional career began when she was selected in the second round of the 2020 NWSL College Draft by Orlando Pride. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the preseason and subsequent NWSL schedule were canceled. She was signed to a short-term contract for the return to play during the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup but was unable to participate as Orlando Pride withdrew from the tournament due to multiple positive COVID-19 tests within the team.
Breakthrough (2021-2022)
In August 2020, McClernon joined the Swedish club Växjö for the remainder of the season, making her debut on August 16, 2020. She made 12 league appearances as Växjö finished sixth in the league. On January 22, 2021, she re-signed with Orlando Pride on a two-year contract. McClernon made her NWSL debut on April 10, 2021, and her performances earned her a spot on the NWSL Team of the Month for May 2021, reflecting her impact on the field.
Notable Works and Milestones
McClernon’s career continued to progress when she was traded to OL Reign during the 2022 NWSL Draft. Throughout the 2022 season, she made 11 appearances for the club and played in two matches of the NWSL Challenge Cup. In 2023, after recovering from a back injury, she started eight of the final nine fixtures of the regular season and contributed significantly in the playoffs, including recording her first assist for the Reign in a playoff match against Angel City FC.
Phoebe McClernon Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Phoebe McClernon has received recognition for her performances, including being named to the NWSL Team of the Month in May 2021 for her outstanding contributions during that period.
Phoebe McClernon Awards Won
While specific awards won by Phoebe McClernon are not detailed, her consistent performance and recognition in the league highlight her capabilities as a professional soccer player.
Phoebe McClernon Family
Information regarding Phoebe McClernon’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Phoebe McClernon’s personal life, including her marital status or relationships, are not publicly disclosed.