The Journey: Lo’eau LaBonta’s Rise, Resilience and USWNT Debut

Lo’eau LaBonta is a midfielder and captain for the Kansas City Current in the National Women’s Soccer League. LaBonta played at Stanford University from 2011-14 and was a part of the 2011 NCAA Championship team. During her time with the Cardinal, she made 78 appearances, scored 22 goals and had seven assists. She was first drafted by Sky Blue FC in 2015 and also played for the Utah Royals.

See LaBonta's Kansas City Current profile here

Resilience in the Face of Rejection

Despite being drafted by Sky Blue FC, LaBonta was waived during her rookie season. Although it seemed like her soccer career was crumbling, LaBonta’s mindset kept her dreams alive. But instead of giving up, she leaned into her passion for the game and refused to let that setback define her. As she put it, “Being stubborn in the most positive way possible.

“My rookie season I got cut and I was like, ‘This isn’t the end of my soccer career.’ I love soccer so much … It’s so fun and it’s constantly developing and changing and growing. I think that’s me as a person and human being as well.”

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Keeping that attitude and persistence has led LaBonta to a successful 10-plus-year career in the NWSL.

During her time in the league, she has become known for her leadership and fun celebrations, earning the nickname “Celly Queen.”

USWNT Debut: The Reward of Patience

In May 2025, LaBonta was called up for her first USWNT camp ahead of international friendlies against China and Jamaica.

Despite being a captain and leader for Kansas City Current, LaBonta embraced her rookie status at the camp.

“I think it's interesting to have to lean on [younger teammates]," she said. "It doesn't matter how old you are, how young you are, you can still ask people, you still learn.”

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Following her national camp debut, LaBonta made history on May 31, 2025 when she became the oldest player to earn a first cap for the USWNT at 32 years old.

After the game, LaBonta described herself as a huge fan of the USWNT, who was pumped to finally get her opportunity on the pitch.

Why LaBonta’s Story Matters

It is a reminder that a positive attitude, consistency, determination and patience go a long way.

Key Takeaways:

For Parents: Support your child through the ups and downs and remind them that “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” – Charles R. Swindoll.

Failure can be a starting point, not a dead end.

For Coaches: Never underestimate a player’s long-term potential. Foster a culture that values mental toughness and growth, not just talent.

For Young Athletes: Rejection isn’t the end. Keep showing up,  stay hungry, learn from everyone and trust your own journey. Dreams do not have an expiration date.