EMILY PICKERING HARNER

Emily Pickering Harner was a fierce competitor and one of the most dynamic players on the first U.S. Women’s National Team. She made history by delivering the first-ever assist and scoring the second goal in team history during its 1985 debut. 

A product of the University of North Carolina’s dynasty years, Harner won three NCAA championships and one AIAW title before becoming USWNT captain in 1986, 1987, and 1992. Her leadership and attacking creativity helped shape the team’s identity in its formative years. 

“You go 1,000% every day, all day long, and that’s it. My whole focus is on winning and kicking your ass,” she says