Courtesy of Angel City FC, NWSL.
Kennedy Fuller on field as part of Angels FC of the NWSL.
Southlake Dragon fans have witnessed the rise of many athletic talents over the years, perhaps none more prolific than soccer star Kennedy Fuller. The 2022 State Champion and 2023 Gatorade National Player of the Year recently made headlines by forgoing a college scholarship to attend the University of North Carolina and instead signed a professional contract with Angel City FC of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).
Kennedy's decision to sign with Angel City FC was a sign of a new era in the soccer community, one that usually sees top talent matriculate through the college system before entering the professional realm. With previous intentions set on playing midfield for the legendary University of North Carolina's storied program, Fuller's decision to go professional at such an early age is reminiscent of current USWNT Captain Lindsey Horan and is something soccer fans can expect to see more of in the future.
Courtesy of Angel City FC, NWSL.
Kennedy Fuller signs with Angel FC of the NWSL.
In a whirlwind few days, Fuller celebrated her 17th birthday on March 9 , having already signed with Angel FC via the NWSL U-18 Entry Mechanism just days prior. Her three-year contract with Angel City FC is a vote of confidence in her talent, extending through the 2026 season with an option for 2027. Then on March 17 , she started at midfield in the team’s home opener and would have notched her first professional assist had it not been for a great save by Bay FC goalie Lysianne Proulx.
"Being able to play with some of the best players in the world is such an amazing opportunity, and I'm excited for what's ahead,” Fuller says in a recent statement.
Fuller's addition to the Angel City FC roster marks a strategic investment in the future of the team. With USWNT alums like Christen Press and Sydney Leroux and former NWSL No. 1 draft pick Alyssa Thompson, she’s part of a well-rounded lineup that will only help her develop further.
“Kennedy embodies the boundless excitement of youth reflective of the new direction of our sport at the professional level,” ACFC general manager Angela Hucles says via a media release, “She already possesses a tactical level of understanding beyond her years of experience, and that combined with her clean technique is a fantastic addition to our team.”
While her focus is undeniably on her professional career, Fuller has every intention of pursuing her education. Once she settles into her condo and new life in Los Angeles, she plans to combine her studies and on-field commitments when she enrolls in a Californian university.