Britt Eckerstrom Retires From Professional Soccer
Former Penn State women’s soccer goalkeeper and NWSL star Britt Eckerstrom has officially called it a career.
Eckerstrom, 27, played for the Nittany Lions from 2011 to 2015. The Maryland native was a three-year starter in Happy Valley and served as a captain on the 2015 national championship team.
“From the days I sat on Freedom Hill watching Brianna Scurry dive across the net, to the times I stood in goal in front of the Riveters– and twice raised a NWSL championship trophy– what a journey it’s been,” Eckerstrom wrote.
Eckerstrom spent the majority of her career with the Portland Thorns, a perennial challenger in the NWSL, winning one regular-season title and one championship. She played as a backup to United States women’s national team star Adrianna Franch during her time in the Pacific Northwest.
Despite the lack of playing time, Eckerstrom made a name for herself in 2020, starring in the NWSL Challenge Cup while Franch was absent.
In her Instagram post, Eckerstrom thanked those who made her career possible, from past coaches to her family. She also took the chance to remind her teammates of her table tennis prowess.
“To my teammates past and present — just remember, I can still beat most of you at ping pong,” Eckerstrom joked. “But wow, your friendships will be my most cherished souvenir from the game.”
Eckerstrom didn’t give a specific reason for her retirement despite her relatively young age. It is unclear what her next chapter will be, although Eckerstrom’s club will remain as important as ever.
“To the fans, especially the Portland community I’ve had the privilege of playing for these past four years– you are the heart of this league,” Eckerstrom wrote. “I’ve seen firsthand your generosity, passion, and support. I’m honored to be joining your ranks.”
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