By OkayGoal
The tremendous amount of talent across the NWSL continues to impress audiences from all over the world. Kate Del Fava is an example of a bright player in the league who has recently taken her talent up a notch. The growing recognition of her skill and overall game performances from fans and coaches is well-deserved. Let’s take a look at Del Fava’s development and accomplishments as a soccer star so far.
Collegiate Career: Illinois State University
Durability is a sure quality of Del Fava, and she demonstrated that in starting in 79 out of 84 appearances for the Illinois Redbirds. Not only was her persistent presence a key factor, but her stellar skillset also pushed her up in the program records. She ranks in the top 10 for goals scored, points, and game-winning goals.
After a memorable senior year, where she was awarded the 2019 MVC Player of the Year honor, Del Fava was destined to land a spot in the NWSL. In the 2020 NWSL College Draft, Del Fava was selected by the Utah Royals as the 12th pick.
Utah Royals (2020, 2024-Present) & Kansas City Current (2021-2023)
Del Fava kicked off her career in June 2020 with the Utah Royals. Due to the Utah Royals’ dissolution after 2020, Del Fava moved to KC Current where she played for 3 seasons. There she made her transition from the midfield area to the backline. She established herself as a dependable and useful defender for KC Current.
Del Fava was traded back to Utah after the Royals reemerged and relaunched their expansion. From 2024 to now, Del Fava has cemented her role in the Utah Royals’ backline. Similar to her collegiate experience, through the 2024-2026 seasons, Del Fava proved herself as an Iron Woman as she played every single minute of the season.
Call Up to the USWNT
Representing the USWNT was a dream come true for Del Fava. Initially, she had a role in the US pipeline as an “overage player” of the U-23 squad. It wasn’t until October of this year when Del Fava was able to step on the pitch for the US team at the senior level.
Emma Hayes and the USWNT staff definitely have a lot of work to do as the 2026 World Cup is quickly approaching. Considering the depth of the USWNT, it will be interesting to see if Del Fava’s name is listed on the World Cup roster. Either way, Del Fava is a strong and reliable player who has proven to empower the lineups she has been a part of.
Featured image via @kdelfava