Born: 1977 (Richland, Washington)
Biography:
Elizabeth Heaston Thompson, born in 1977, is an American athlete who holds the distinction of being the first woman ever to score in a college football game. Her remarkable achievement took place on October 18, 1997, as a placekicker for the Willamette Bearcats football team at Willamette University, which was part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for small colleges. Alongside her football prowess, Liz Heaston also excelled in women’s soccer as a defender.
Raised in Richland, Washington, Heaston’s athletic abilities were evident from a young age. After completing her high school education, she enrolled at Willamette University, where she quickly established herself as a star soccer player. In both 1996 and 1997, she earned the prestigious All-American honorable mention accolade, highlighting her exceptional skills and dedication on the field.
In 1997, Heaston’s sporting journey took an unexpected turn when she joined the Willamette football team as a backup placekicker. Little did she know that she was about to make history. On that fateful day in October, during a match against Linfield College, Heaston became the first woman to play and score points in a college football game. Standing at just 5 feet 5 inches and weighing 120 pounds, the soccer player entered the game as a replacement kicker and successfully kicked two extra points, contributing to her team’s 27-0 victory.
The significance of Heaston’s groundbreaking accomplishment resonated far beyond the football field. News of her achievement spread like wildfire, capturing the attention of the media and the sports community nationwide. She received interviews from esteemed programs such as The Today Show and CBS This Morning, solidifying her place in the annals of women’s sports history.
Although her football career lasted only two games, Heaston’s impact on the field was undeniable. She converted two of four extra point attempts, showcasing her skill and determination. In recognition of her extraordinary feat, her jersey now hangs on display at the hallowed grounds of the College Football Hall of Fame, forever etching her name in the annals of the sport.
Despite the euphoria surrounding her football triumph, Heaston returned to exclusively playing soccer at Willamette the following year. In 1999, she graduated with a biology degree, a testament to her commitment to both athletic and academic pursuits. Continuing her education, Heaston attended graduate school at Pacific University, where she earned a doctorate in optometry, a field she continues to work in today.
Life has brought many blessings to Liz Heaston, both personally and professionally. While pursuing her education, she had the opportunity to meet her future husband, Trent Thompson, at Pacific University. Together, they have a daughter named Isabella and a son. Heaston has come full circle, making her home in her hometown of Richland, Washington, where she works alongside her husband at her father’s optometry office.
Liz Heaston’s indomitable spirit, resilience, and trailblazing achievements have left an indelible mark on women’s sports. Through her extraordinary accomplishments, she has shattered boundaries and inspired generations of female athletes to dream big and defy societal expectations. Her place in women’s history is secure, serving as a shining example of courage and determination in the face of adversity.