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Kristine Lilly

Former member, U.S. Women's National Team and Boston Breakers

Kristine Lilly headshot

Kristine Lilly starred on the U.S. Women’s National team for an astonishing 24 years. Kristine earned the nickname “Queen of Caps” for representing her country more than any other international soccer player in history with 354 caps. Kristine captivated the world football stage with her dedication and skill as she was known widely as the best flank midfielder in the world. She played in 5 World Cups (more than any other woman in U.S. soccer history), and 3 Olympic Games, where she won 2 World Cup Championships and 3 Olympic Medals, two of which are gold. When Kristine hung up her cleats in 2011, she had scored against 30 of the 39 countries and played in 23 different nations around the globe.

A 5’4” powerhouse in the midfield, Kristine also had an immense impact on domestic soccer here in the States. Kristine was one of the founding members of the Boston Breakers, where she played in all 19 games of their inaugural season in the Women’s Professional Soccer League. When in college, Kristine played for the North Carolina Tar Heels, where she won 4 National Championships. Her #15 has since been retired by the UNC Hall of Fame.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • 2x World Cup Champion
  • 2x Olympic Gold Medalist, 1x Olympic Silver Medalist
  • 3x US Soccer Female Athlete of the Year
  • 1st All-Time in US Soccer National Team Appearances (354), US Soccer National Team Matches Started (332) and US Soccer National Team Minutes played (28,874)
  • 2nd All-Time in US Women’s National Team Assists
  • 3rd All-Time in US Women’s National Team Goals scored
  • Member of the US Women’s National All-Time Best XI Team

SINCE RETIREMENT

After retirement Kristine served as an Assistant Coach with the University of Texas Women’s Soccer Team from 2014 to 2017. Currently, she runs the Kristine Lilly Soccer Academy, serves as an Ambassador for the U.S Soccer Foundation, and speaks to corporations, universities, and soccer programs around the country.

CHARITABLE INTERESTS

  • Special Olympics
  • Boston Children’s Hospital
  • Women’s Sports Foundation
  • Clifford’s Gift – Board Member