Yazmeen Ryan Bio
Yazmeen Ann Ryan (born February 25, 1999) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a forward or a midfielder for the Houston Dash of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the United States national team. She played college soccer for the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs and was drafted sixth overall by Portland Thorns FC in the 2021 NWSL Draft. Ryan played for two years in Portland before joining NJ/NY Gotham FC. She has won two NWSL Championships, one each with Portland and Gotham.
Early Life and Background
Yazmeen Ryan grew up in Norman, Oklahoma, where she attended Norman North High School. During her high school years, she played for the club team Oklahoma Celtic. As a freshman, she led Norman North to their first-ever girls soccer state championship, showcasing her talent early on and setting the stage for her future in soccer. Ryan’s early exposure to the sport and her achievements in high school laid a strong foundation for her athletic career.
Path to Soccer
After her successful high school career, Yazmeen Ryan joined the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs in 2017 as an attacking midfielder. She quickly made an impact on the team and served as captain in 2020. Under her leadership, the team achieved its first-ever Big 12 Conference championship, although Ryan missed the championship-clinching game due to injury. Her collegiate performance caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to her selection in the NWSL Draft.
Yazmeen Ryan Career
Early Career (2017-2021)
Yazmeen Ryan began her professional career with Oklahoma City, where she played from 2017 to 2019. During her time there, she was recognized as one of the club’s all-time Best XI players, highlighting her significant contributions to the team. In 2021, Ryan was drafted sixth overall by the Portland Thorns FC in the NWSL Draft, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
Breakthrough (2021-2023)
Ryan’s breakthrough came with her debut for Portland Thorns FC, where she quickly became a key player. She appeared in the starting lineup for the Thorns in the 2022 NWSL Championship Final, helping the team secure the championship. After two successful years in Portland, Ryan was traded to NJ/NY Gotham FC on January 5, 2023, as part of a three-team trade. At Gotham, she made the most appearances for the team during the 2023 season and started in the NWSL Championship Final, where Gotham triumphed over OL Reign 2–1.
Notable Works and Milestones
Yazmeen Ryan’s signature achievements include winning two NWSL Championships, one with Portland Thorns FC in 2022 and another with NJ/NY Gotham FC in 2023. Her consistent performance and leadership on the field have established her as a prominent figure in women’s soccer.
Yazmeen Ryan Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Yazmeen Ryan has been recognized for her contributions to the sport, including nominations for various awards, reflecting her impact and success in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Yazmeen Ryan Awards Won
Yazmeen Ryan has won two NWSL Championships, one with Portland Thorns FC in 2022 and another with NJ/NY Gotham FC in 2023, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport.
Yazmeen Ryan Family
Information about Yazmeen Ryan’s family is not publicly available, as she has kept her personal life private.
Personal Life
Yazmeen Ryan has focused on her professional career and has not publicly disclosed details about her personal life, including relationships or children.
