The Phenomenal Rise of Naomi Girma, the First Ethiopian Woman to Play for the U.S. National Team 

BY VODINA SAM

In sports, certain other things apart from skills stand athletes out, and such things are their dedication, leadership, and impact on the game. In women’s soccer, Naomi Girma, a budding star whose skills and discipline have earned her recognition both nationally and internationally, stands out as the only Ethiopian to play on the U.S. Football Team.

Naomi Girma was born on July 22, 2001, in San Jose, California, USA. From a young age, it was evident that she possessed a natural aptitude for soccer. Her passion for the sport led her to join youth clubs, where she honed her skills and caught the eye of coaches and scouts.

Girma’s talent did not go unnoticed as she grew; she earned a scholarship to play for Stanford University’s women’s soccer team, the Stanford Cardinals. During her time at Stanford, Girma distinguished herself as a versatile and tenacious defender. Her exceptional defensive capabilities, along with her ability to read the game and contribute to the attack, earned her accolades and made her a vital asset to the team.

The national team selectors took note of Girma’s remarkable performances at the collegiate level. She received her first US Women’s National Team (USWNT) call-up in 2019. She was a useful addition to the group because of her calmness, tactical knowledge, and capacity to thwart opposing attacks.

Since making her debut, Naomi Girma has kept making waves around the world. She has competed for the US in several events, including the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, where she displayed her defensive prowess and was a key contributor to the team’s victory.

Girma has demonstrated outstanding playing skills in addition to strong leadership ability. She is renowned for maintaining composure on the pitch and having excellent teammate communication skills. She serves as an inspiration for aspiring young athletes off the field by exemplifying the value of commitment, self-control, and sportsmanship.

Naomi Girma’s career is moving in the right direction, and she appears to have endless potential. Fans and watchers alike are excited to see how she continues to grow and contribute to both her collegiate squad and the USWNT. It wouldn’t be unexpected to see her develop into a key member of the national squad in the future.

Naomi Girma’s journey from a talented youth player to a rising star in women’s soccer is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and innate talent. Her impact on the field and her positive influence off it make her a figure to watch in the world of women’s soccer. As she continues to grow and evolve as a player, Naomi Girma is poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport.