By OkayGoal 
With the recent news of Tobin Heath’s official retirement from professional soccer, a lot of us soccer fans are feeling all sorts of emotions. From the happiness in all the sweet memories Heath gave us, to the bitterness caused by the unjust injuries Heath suffered in her career, fans and players are truly feeling the impact of Heath’s legacy. Here we’ll reflect on the magnificence of the Nutmeg Queen herself.
Tar Heel Legend
Before diving into her professional achievements, Heath’s collegiate run at UNC is one for the books. Not only did she score 19 goals in 93 appearances, but Heath also contributed to bringing three NCAA titles in 2006, 2008, and 2009. UNC has a reputation for developing excellent women’s soccer players, and Heath surely contributes to the Tar Heels’ legacy.
Club and Country
Heath played in the WPS after her time at UNC for Atlanta Beat and Sky Blue FC. In 2013, she made her move overseas to play for PSG. Not long after, she returned to the States to play for the Portland Thorns, where she made a great impact, lifting the 2013 and 2017 NWSL titles. Heath also took her talents to Manchester United, Arsenal, and OL Reign.
As for her role in the USWNT, there has quite literally never been as skilled of a player as Heath. Her footwork and ability to make opponents look outright silly are simply ridiculous. She helped bring many awards to the organization, such as the WWC title in 2015 and 2019, two Olympic gold medals, CONCACAF titles in 2014 and 2018, and much more.
Tobin’s electric playstyle was masterful and extended beyond the countries in which she played. She inspired many girls with her dedication and passion towards the game. As most say, she is your favorite player’s favorite player.
Off the Field
Heath has been vocal about gender equity and equality. She and her wife, Christen Press, are activists who have created safe spaces for queer individuals. In 2019, the couple, along with Megan Rapinoe and Meghan Klingenberg, founded the RE-INC company. RE-INC is a media platform that values the ideals of creativity, equity, and progress. The most special aspect of Heath’s retirement announcement is that she was able to share the news on RE-INC.
Heath and Press also host a podcast called the RE-Cap Show. Here, the couple expands on various soccer-related and non-soccer-related topics. They’ve opened a space where female athletes and female voices can be heard. Amplifying important conversations that may not be directly aligned with soccer is the activism that Heath has long committed to.
In another move, Heath was recently added to the FIFA Technical Study Group for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The TSG aims to analyze the game and notice tactical trends. Heath is the first and only woman selected for this year’s panel.
Overall, there’s no doubt that Tobin will continue to advance the game for all players, regardless of their background. Through her wisdom and passion, women’s soccer and soccer as a whole are in a wonderful spot. Youngsters such as Trinity Rodman and Alyssa Thompson are just a few who’ve expressed the importance of Heath’s game. The legacy Heath has left the game with is undeniable, yet her career after playing the field is set to be just as exciting.
Featured image via Getty Images
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