Born: 1978 (Garston area, Watford, England)
Biography:
Kelly Jayne Smith MBE was born on October 29, 1978, in the Garston area of Watford, England. From an early age, Smith displayed a natural talent for football and was determined to pursue her passion despite facing obstacles along the way. Her perseverance and immense skill propelled her to become one of the most renowned female football players in history.
Smith’s journey in football began when she joined a boys’ team in Garston Boys Club at the age of seven. However, her remarkable skills on the pitch made her male opponents’ parents complain, leading to her expulsion from the team. Undeterred, Smith’s father formed a girls’ team called Pinner Girls, where Kelly continued to develop her talents.
In the 1994-1995 season, Smith made her senior debut for Wembley Ladies and quickly caught the attention of football enthusiasts and professionals. Pete Davies of The Independent described her as the outstanding prospect in the women’s game due to her lethal speed and abundant natural gifts.
Smith’s talent didn’t go unnoticed, and in 1996 she joined Arsenal Ladies. In her first season with the club, she played a pivotal role in securing the Premier League title by scoring two goals and assisting on the third in a decisive 3-0 victory over Liverpool. Her skill and dedication on the field immediately marked her as a key player in women’s football.
While continuing her football career, Smith pursued her education and sports at Seton Hall University in the United States. In 1997, she joined the Seton Hall Pirates and made an immediate impact. Smith set scoring records for the Big East Conference in her first year and was named both the Offensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year. In the following two seasons, she maintained her exceptional performance, becoming the leading scorer in the whole of NCAA Division I and earning the Big East Offensive Player of the Year title again.
Smith’s achievements at Seton Hall University were unparalleled, and she was honored with the retirement of her number 6 shirt, making her the first athlete in any sport other than basketball to receive such an accolade from the university. Throughout her three years at Seton Hall, she scored an impressive 76 goals and accumulated 174 points in just 51 matches.
After completing her studies, Smith chose to remain in the United States, ready to take on new challenges in her football career. She joined the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA) franchise Philadelphia Charge and immediately left a lasting impact. Smith’s remarkable abilities and record-breaking performances earned her a professional contract and further solidified her place in women’s football history.
In 2005, Smith returned to Arsenal for her second spell with the club, where she continued to excel. During her time with Arsenal, she played an instrumental role in the team’s triumph in the 2007 UEFA Women’s Cup, a prestigious accomplishment that highlighted her exceptional talent and determination. Smith’s contributions to the team on and off the field made her an influential figure in the growth of women’s football in England and beyond.
In 2009, Smith embarked on her third spell in the United States, signing with the Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) team, the Boston Breakers. Her return to America showcased not only her unwavering commitment to football but also her ability to adapt and thrive in different environments. Smith’s outstanding performances continued to captivate audiences and solidify her status as one of the best forwards in the women’s game.
Throughout her career, Smith faced numerous challenges, including serious injuries that threatened to derail her progress. However, her resilience and determination allowed her to overcome these setbacks, further cementing her legacy.
On the international stage, Smith proudly represented the England national team. Making her debut in 1995, she went on to accumulate an impressive 117 caps and became England’s second-highest goalscorer with 46 goals. Her contributions to the national team and her role as an ambassador for English women’s football cannot be overstated.
Smith’s impact on society extends far beyond her performances on the pitch. As a trailblazer for female athletes, she inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams and challenged societal norms regarding gender roles in sports. Her passion, dedication, and skill set an example for generations to come.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to football, Smith was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2008. This prestigious honor acknowledges her significant influence on women’s football and her dedication to the sport she loves.
Kelly Smith’s remarkable journey from a determined young girl playing on boys’ teams to becoming an icon of women’s football is a testament to her indomitable spirit and exceptional talent. Her lifelong dedication to the sport has left an indelible mark on women’s football history, inspiring future generations of female athletes to chase their dreams and surpass expectations.
Awards:
– Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)