The USWNT has been a powerhouse at the previous World Cups. The upcoming 2023 Women's World Cup promises to be an exhilarating tournament, showcasing the immense talent and skill of women's soccer from around the globe. As fans eagerly anticipate the event, it's worth highlighting the strong collegiate background of several USWNT players. These remarkable athletes have honed their skills and developed their game at esteemed universities across the United States. In this article, we'll explore the pride-inspiring alma maters of the Team USA players set to compete in the 2023 Women's World Cup.

1. University of North Carolina – Tar Heels:

The University of North Carolina has long been a powerhouse in women's collegiate soccer, producing exceptional players who have represented the USWNT with distinction. Notable Team USA players from UNC include midfielder Crystal Dunn, defender Emily Fox, and forward Tobin Heath. These athletes have honed their skills under the guidance of renowned coach Anson Dorrance, and their experience at UNC has undoubtedly contributed to their success on the international stage.

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2. Stanford University – Cardinal:

Stanford University has consistently produced top-tier talent in women's soccer, and their influence extends to the national team as well. Several USWNT players have donned the Cardinal jersey, including forward Catarina Macario, forward Christian Press, midfielder Andi Sullivan, and defender Tierna Davidson. Stanford's commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics has undoubtedly played a role in shaping these players into the formidable athletes they are today.

3. University of Virginia – Cavaliers:

The University of Virginia has a rich soccer tradition, and its women's soccer program has consistently been among the nation's best. USWNT players such as defender Becky Sauerbrunn and midfielder Morgan Brian have both represented the Cavaliers in their collegiate careers. The rigorous training and competitive environment at Virginia have helped these players develop into key contributors on the international stage.

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4. UCLA – Bruins:

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), has a storied history in women's soccer, and its players have made a significant impact on the national team. Notable USWNT players from UCLA include forward Sydney Leroux, midfielder Sam Mewis, and defender Abby Dahlkemper. The Bruins' emphasis on technical skill, tactical awareness, and a winning mentality has translated into success at the collegiate and international levels.

5. University of Portland – Pilots:

The University of Portland has been a breeding ground for top-level women's soccer talent, and Team USA has benefitted from their exceptional players. Notable Pilots who have represented USWNT include forward Megan Rapinoe, and previous USWNT players Shannon McMillan and Tiffeny Milbrett. The Pilots' commitment to a possession-based style of play and a strong team culture has influenced these players' development and prepared them for success on the world stage.

6. Florida State University – Seminoles:

Florida State University has emerged as a force in women's college soccer, consistently producing outstanding players who excel at the international level. Notable USWNT players from Florida State include defender Carson Pickett and midfielder Jaelin Howell. The Seminoles' dedication to tactical discipline and technical proficiency has helped shape these players' abilities and prepared them for the rigors of international competition.

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The 2023 Women's World Cup will undoubtedly be an exhilarating showcase of women's soccer talent from around the world, and Team USA will be well-represented by a group of remarkable athletes. The collegiate backgrounds of these players at prestigious institutions such as the University of North Carolina, Stanford University, the University of Virginia, UCLA, the University of Portland, and Florida State University have contributed significantly to their development and prepared them for the international stage. As fans cheer, routing on Team USA, prospective college athletes are looking to these programs to help them take the next step in their career and potentially joining the powerhouse that is the USWNT. 

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* Originally published on June 22, 2023, by Rebecca Lutz