Everyone can’t stop talking about Mallory Pugh! As a vital member of the U.S. women’s soccer team, she’s one of the YOUNGEST stars to join the roster at the 2016 Rio Olympics! As the fresh face that’s rocking the games, she’s even been dubbed the “next Mia Hamm” for her insane soccer abilities! Here’s everything you need to know about the 18-year-old!
Mallory Pugh, 18, is the rising soccer star that is catching the attention of just about everyone, especially as a member of the 18-player roster on the U.S. women’s soccer team in Rio. She showcases her incredible skills and lightening speed on the field, where she is the youngest player in the U.S. Women’s National Team pool to make her debut in the last 11 years. Mallory has garnered multiple awards, including the 2015 U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, among many others. We’ve rounded up five important things to know about the breakout soccer star taking the game by storm!
1. Mallory was born in Highlands Ranch, CO, and her parents had quite the athletic background!
Her mother and father were runners, and her dad even played football. She has an older sister, Brianna, who she credits a reason she got involved in soccer. She would watch her sister play soccer at a young age, and almost immediately followed in her footsteps.
2. She earned her first cap, or goal, for the U.S. National team in 2016 in an intense game against Ireland.
Mallory was 17-years-old at the time, just about to turn 18. She was coming on for Alex Morgan in the 58th minute and scored on a header off an assist from Christen Press. This move made her the 19th U.S. female player to score in their debut, as well as the 6th youngest goal scorer in U.S. history. WOW!
2016 Rio Olympics — SEE PICS
3. If all of this wasn’t enough to realize her star power, she’s even been dubbed the “next Mia Hamm“.
Mia, a gold medalist and iconic star on the field, even knows she’s the real deal…
4. Although many believe she will go pro, Mallory is headed to college!
The athlete plans on attending the University of California, Los Angeles.
5. In case you didn’t know, she’s played in 14 of the U.S. team’s 15 games.
Mallory’s even started in 10 of those games, adding seven assists and three goals. Check out her mind-blowing skills.
HollywoodLifers, are you rooting for Mallory at the 2016 Rio Olympics? Tell us in the comments below!
