A talented forward who scored crucial goals for the Canadian national team, helping them reach the quarterfinals in the 2003 World Cup and earning a reputation as a prolific striker.
Kara Lang is a household name in the Canadian soccer scene, known for being the youngest woman to represent Canada at the international level, making her debut at the tender age of 15. With a career spanning over a decade, Lang has left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring generations of young players to follow in her footsteps.
Born on October 22, 1986, in Calgary, Alberta, Lang grew up in Oakville, Ontario, with her mother hailing from Manchester, England. Her early life was filled with sports, and she began playing soccer at the age of 5. Lang's talent was evident from the start, and she quickly rose through the ranks, joining the Canadian National Women's Team at 15.
Lang's exceptional skills earned her a spot at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she was ranked as the number one recruit in the 2005 class. Under the guidance of head coach Jill Ellis, Lang's Bruins compiled an impressive record, winning the Pac-10 title and finishing fourth nationally. She was named a preseason All-American and scored a hat-trick in her second game, going on to score eight goals in six NCAA tournament games.
Lang's international career was nothing short of remarkable. She represented Canada in two FIFA World Cups and the Olympic Games, earning 92 caps and scoring 34 goals. Her debut at 15 made her the youngest woman to ever play for Canada, a record that still stands today.
Lang's career was cut short due to recurring knee and ACL injuries, leading to her retirement in 2011 at the age of 24. However, she made a comeback in 2013, with the goal of helping Canada in the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup. Unfortunately, she suffered a third ACL injury in 2014, effectively ending her comeback.
After hanging up her boots, Lang transitioned to a career as a sports analyst. She is married to former baseball player Ricky Romero, and they have two sons and a daughter together. Lang was inducted into the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame as a player in 2015.
Lang has been an advocate for a plant-based lifestyle, transitioning to vegetarianism as a teenager and eventually becoming vegan. Her decision was inspired by national teammate Amy Walsh, who mentored her through the process.
Kara Lang's impact on Canadian soccer is undeniable. She paved the way for young players, inspiring them to pursue their dreams. Lang's dedication to her craft, her country, and her community has left a lasting legacy, cementing her place as one of Canada's greatest soccer players.
42 Years Old
A highly decorated soccer player and Olympic medalist, known for holding the record for most international goals scored by a player.
42 Years Old
A Canadian midfielder who won Olympic bronze and was a key player in the national team's success, known for her exceptional skill and clutch performances.
