Born: 1971 (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Biography:
Briana Collette Scurry, born on September 7, 1971 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is an American retired soccer goalkeeper and assistant coach of the Washington Spirit as of 2018. Scurry’s impact on women’s soccer cannot be overstated, as she played a pivotal role in some of the most memorable moments in the history of the sport.
Scurry first gained recognition as the starting goalkeeper for the United States women’s national soccer team at the 1995 World Cup, where the team finished in 3rd place. Her exceptional skills and leadership earned her a spot on the squad for the 1996 Summer Olympics, where she played an instrumental role in helping the U.S. team win the golden medal.
But it was the 1999 World Cup that truly solidified Scurry’s legacy. In the final against China, with the score tied at 0-0, Scurry made a crucial save in the penalty shootout to secure the victory for the United States. Her heroic performance not only earned her recognition as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, but it also propelled women’s soccer to new heights of popularity and inspired a generation of aspiring young players.
Scurry’s success continued at the 2003 World Cup, where she helped the U.S. team finish in 3rd place. She also represented her country at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games, where she once again played an integral role in winning another gold medal. Scurry’s total of 173 international appearances is the second most among female soccer goalkeepers, a testament to her longevity and consistency at the highest level of the sport.
In addition to her accomplishments on the international stage, Scurry was a founding member of the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA) and played three seasons as the starting goalkeeper for the Atlanta Beat from 2001 to 2003. Her presence in the league further elevated the profile of women’s soccer in the United States and helped pave the way for future generations of players.
Scurry’s contributions to the sport were recognized when she was elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame on August 3, 2017. She became the first woman goalkeeper and first black woman to receive this prestigious honor, underscoring her trailblazing status within the sport.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Scurry has also been open about her identity as a gay woman. On June 1, 2018, she married Chryssa Zizos, CEO of Live Wire Strategic Communications, LLC. Scurry’s courage in living her truth has made her a role model for LGBTQ+ athletes all over the world.
In 2022, Scurry released her critically acclaimed memoir, My Greatest Save, which delves into her personal journey and the challenges she faced as a pioneering athlete. Her story is also the subject of the CBS feature-length documentary, The Only, which chronicles her extraordinary life.
Briana Scurry’s impact on women’s soccer extends far beyond her accomplishments on the field. She has been a driving force for change and equality within the sport, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of athletes. Her dedication, skill, and resilience have made her a true legend in women’s sports.
Awards:
– Gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics
– FIFA World Cup champion in 1999
– Gold medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics
– Inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2017