Malia Berkely (born May 13, 1998) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a defender. She is known for her defensive prowess and versatility on the field.
Early Life and College Career Born in Clinton, Michigan, Berkely grew up playing soccer and developed into a highly touted prospect. She attended Florida State University, where she played collegiate soccer for the Florida State Seminoles from 2016 to 2020. During her time at Florida State, she was a key player in the team's defense, contributing to multiple successful seasons, including winning the NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Championship in 2018. She earned numerous accolades, including being named ACC Defensive Player of the Year and an All-American.
Club Career
- North Carolina Courage (2021): Berkely was drafted by the North Carolina Courage with the 22nd overall pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft. She made her professional debut with the club and contributed to their season.
- HB Køge (2021–2022): Following her stint in the NWSL, Berkely moved to Denmark to play for HB Køge in the Danish Women's League (Kvinde-DM Liga). She quickly established herself as a vital member of the squad, helping the team win the league title in the 2021–2022 season and participate in the UEFA Women's Champions League.
- Portland Thorns FC (2023–Present): Berkely returned to the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in 2023, signing with Portland Thorns FC. She has since been a regular starter for the Thorns, playing a crucial role in their defensive line.
International Career Berkely has represented the United States at various youth international levels, including the U-17 and U-20 national teams. She has participated in international tournaments and camps, showcasing her talent on the global stage.
Playing Style Berkely is known for her strong defensive capabilities, including her ability to read the game, make timely tackles, and distribute the ball effectively from the back. She possesses good athleticism and leadership qualities, making her a valuable asset to any team.
Honors and Achievements
- NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Championship: 2018 (with Florida State)
- ACC Defensive Player of the Year: (Multiple collegiate honors)
- Kvinde-DM Liga (Danish Women's League): 2021–2022 (with HB Køge)
References
- [Official team profiles, NWSL statistics, university athletic department records, etc. would be listed here.]