The future of U.S. women’s soccer looks brighter than ever, and Ally Sentnor is leading the charge. On Friday, the Utah Royals forward was named the 2024 U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, an honor that solidifies her place among the nation’s most promising talents.
At just 20 years old, Sentnor’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The Hanson, Massachusetts native made her senior international debut in November, holding her own in a scoreless draw against England. Shortly after, she captained the U.S. U-20 squad to a third-place finish at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, netting three goals and earning the Bronze Ball as the tournament’s third-best player.
A Prodigy Turned Pro:
Sentnor’s meteoric rise began at the University of North Carolina, where she became a standout star. Her talent earned her the top pick in the NWSL Draft, and she didn’t disappoint in her rookie season. With three goals and four assists in 21 appearances, Sentnor was a force for the Royals, even garnering a nomination for NWSL Rookie of the Year.
“Grateful and humbled,” Sentnor said in U.S. Soccer’s announcement. “To see the list of players who have won this before shows me the opportunities that are ahead.”
Indeed, she joins an elite club of past winners that reads like a U.S. Women’s National Team Hall of Fame. Seven members of last summer’s gold medal-winning Olympic squad—including stars like Lindsey Horan, Naomi Girma, Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson—have also taken home this prestigious award.
Making History:
Sentnor became the ninth alum from UNC to win this honor, following in the footsteps of Cindy Parlow Cone, the inaugural winner in 1998 and now U.S. Soccer’s president. Her rise reflects the powerhouse legacy of UNC and its enduring influence on American soccer.
What’s Next:
Sentnor is currently training with the USWNT in Fort Lauderdale under head coach Emma Hayes, preparing for the 2025 SheBelieves Cup. With a growing list of accolades and undeniable talent, she’s poised to be a key figure in U.S. soccer’s next generation.
Fans across the country, especially those in Utah and loyal Tar Heels, have plenty to be excited about. Keep an eye on this rising star—Sentnor’s story is just getting started.
