So many of the current stars on the USWNT have excelled and advanced through the various development programs U.S. soccer has to offer. Today, a lot of young women are beginning their paths towards a professional soccer career in the youth development programs. We will take a look at 10 U18/U19 women’s soccer players who are rising up the ranks. Let’s see who we should keep a close eye on.
1. Kimmi Ascanio (San Diego Wave)
Midfielder Kimmi Ascanio has made a big splash within the San Diego Wave program. From being the second youngest star to score a game-winner in the NWSL to netting a few goals for Wave this season, Ascanio is no doubt an unbelievable talent to shortlist. Despite missing the U-17 Women’s World Cup due to San Diego keeping her back for league and postseason games, Ascanio is sure to play a major role in the youth development squads for the U.S. soccer organization. She is the only member of the combined U18/U19 U.S. Women’s Youth National Team that plays in the NWSL. Her presence in San Diego represents the shift of an even younger generation making its way into the league.
2. Audrey McKeen (Virginia Development Academy)
Next, we have forward Audrey McKeen. With her scoring ability and speed, there is no question as to why she has recently committed to play for the Seminoles. Florida State has a long history of equipping its players with the necessary skills to thrive and succeed in professional soccer. McKeen has shown excellent potential and even helped the youth U18/U19 squad pull away with a victory last month against Ireland. Her 78th-minute goal was the only score for the match. The Virginia Development Academy has done well to give important tools to McKeen; now it will be interesting to see how she continues to develop in the youth program and at Florida State.
3. Braelyn Even (Ohio Elite SA)
Resilience, strategy, and strength are all crucial qualities for a soccer defender. Braelyn Even has proven to be a prominent force on the pitch. Ascanio couldn’t have scored that stand-alone goal against Ireland without Even’s assist. Even is also known as a dual-sport standout as both a top basketball scorer and a relentless soccer defender at Badin High School in Hamilton, Ohio. Her recent commitment to play soccer at the collegiate level highlights her passion and preference for the mental demands required to compete in the sport. She will play at the University of Cincinnati after graduating high school in 2026.
4. Alexa Strickler (Fort Lauderdale United FC)
As an academy contract player, Strickler is on a path toward growth, gaining experience in professional environments while maintaining her eligibility for a collegiate career. Having competed in the USL and committed to Duke University, she has her eyes set on developing the skills needed to excel in professional soccer. Many of her attributes already point to future success, including her versatility, attacking mindset, and strong defensive positioning. Her roles in the USL, U.S. youth development teams, and as a Blue Devil will all shape the player she becomes. It will be exciting to watch!
5. London Young (FC Dallas)
Young has been committed to playing for Stanford since 2024. Her inclusion on the U18/U19 roster for two friendly matches in Portugal shows the potential she brings. She continues to build her skills and knowledge of the game with FC Dallas before heading to Stanford. Her collegiate career will be exciting to watch.
6. Paige Thompson (Alabama)
As a freshman for the Crimson Tide, Thompson made a significant impact. She played in 17 matches, starting 6, and recorded 2 assists, which is definitely not a bad freshman season at all! Including Thompson in the U18/U19 Portugal friendlies made sense, as it allowed her to gain exposure to international play and U.S. development training. Will Thompson help guide Alabama to another 10+ win season? We’ll have to keep an eye on her sophomore season to find out.
7. Savannah Leifried (Bay Area Surf SC)
Moving on, we have defender Savannah Leifried, who has impressed many with her skills. At just 14, she gained experience in semi-professional play with the Academica Women’s Soccer Club in the USL W-League. Since then, she has played a key role with the Bay Area Surf ECNL G08/07 team. As a top prospect in the 2027 class, her involvement with the U16–U19 youth squads is crucial for developing her skills and maintaining her place in the U.S. youth pool. Leifried is a future Trojan, having verbally committed to play for the Division I program at USC.
8. Rylee McLanahan (Solar SC)
If you are familiar with the youth development teams, then McLanahan is no stranger to you. Her role as team captain in the U17 Women’s World Cup made all the difference. The ability to finish and score is undoubtedly McLanahan’s specialty—she even holds the goal-scoring record at her high school in Oklahoma. From her leadership to her attacking abilities, McLanahan is sure to make a name for herself in her collegiate career and beyond.
9. Josie Biehl (San Diego Surf SC)
Joining McLanahan as a Trojan, goalkeeper Josie Biehl is set to elevate her skill set both in college and within the U.S. development program. At 5’9”, Biehl has impressive coverage of the goal, along with a calmness that keeps her composed under pressure. She is sure to continue developing and has the potential to be phenomenal in goal.
10. Olivia Belcher (Alabama)
Alongside Thompson, Belcher played her freshman season for the Crimson Tide. She helped contribute to four shutouts and appeared in all 17 matches for Alabama. Her call-up to the U18/U19 youth team is well deserved, as she excels in the midfield with outstanding passing and dribbling skills. Thompson and Belcher are both poised to make an even bigger impact in their sophomore seasons. It’s safe to say we should keep an eye on the Crimson Tide.
Image via @ryleemclanahan
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