At Cochrane Wolves FC, we love to celebrate the achievements of soccer stars who inspire our young players. One such star is Ashley Lawrence, a phenomenal talent in women’s soccer whose journey from grassroots to the international stage exemplifies dedication, skill, and resilience. In this blog post, we will delve into Ashley Lawrence’s club and international career, highlight her achievements, discuss the highs and lows, and update you on where she is now.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Early Years
Ashley Lawrence was born on June 11, 1995, in Toronto, Ontario. From a young age, she showed a natural affinity for soccer, playing with local youth clubs and honing her skills. Her talent was evident early on, and she quickly became a standout player in youth leagues.
College Soccer at West Virginia University
Lawrence’s journey took a significant step forward when she attended West Virginia University (WVU) in 2013. During her time at WVU, she played for the Mountaineers and made a lasting impact. She was known for her versatility, able to play as a midfielder, winger, and defender with equal proficiency. Her collegiate career was decorated with numerous accolades, including All-American honors and being named to the All-Big 12 First Team multiple times.
Club Career
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
After an impressive college career, Lawrence signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in January 2017. Joining one of the top clubs in Europe was a significant milestone, and Lawrence quickly became an integral part of the team. Her ability to play in multiple positions made her a valuable asset for PSG.
Achievements with PSG
- Domestic Success: Lawrence helped PSG consistently compete at the highest level in the Division 1 Féminine, the top tier of women’s soccer in France.
- UEFA Women’s Champions League: Lawrence played a key role in PSG’s campaigns in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, where the team regularly reached the later stages of the competition.
Recent Move to Chelsea
In July 2023, Ashley Lawrence made a high-profile move to Chelsea FC Women in the English Women’s Super League (WSL). This transfer marked another significant step in her career, providing new challenges and opportunities in one of the most competitive women’s leagues in the world.
International Career with Canada
Early Promise
Lawrence’s international career began at a young age, representing Canada in various youth tournaments. She made her senior debut for the Canadian national team in 2013 and quickly established herself as a key player.
Major Tournaments
Lawrence has represented Canada in several major tournaments, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games. Her performances on the international stage have been consistently impressive, showcasing her versatility and skill.
2016 Rio Olympics
One of the highlights of Lawrence’s international career came during the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she helped Canada win a bronze medal. Her contributions were crucial in securing Canada’s place on the podium, and this achievement solidified her status as one of the top players in the world.
2020 Tokyo Olympics
At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic), Lawrence and the Canadian team achieved historic success by winning the gold medal. This victory was a crowning achievement for Lawrence and her teammates, demonstrating their determination and excellence on the global stage.
Highs and Lows of Her Career
Highs
- Olympic Success: Winning bronze in 2016 and gold in 2021 with the Canadian national team are among the highest points of Lawrence’s career.
- Club Achievements: Lawrence’s successful stints at PSG and her recent move to Chelsea highlight her growth and impact at the club level.
- Versatility and Consistency: Her ability to excel in multiple positions and her consistent performances over the years have earned her recognition as one of the best in the game.
Lows
- Injuries: Like many athletes, Lawrence has faced injury challenges that have temporarily sidelined her. However, her resilience and determination have always seen her return stronger.
- Tough Losses: Despite many successes, there have been tough losses, such as narrow exits in the later stages of the UEFA Women’s Champions League with PSG. These moments have been learning experiences, fueling her drive to succeed.
Life Beyond the Pitch
Advocacy and Inspiration
Beyond her on-field achievements, Ashley Lawrence is known for her advocacy work. She is a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports and works to inspire the next generation of female soccer players. Her journey from grassroots soccer to the world stage serves as a powerful example for young athletes, particularly girls who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Current Status
As of now, Ashley Lawrence is playing for Chelsea FC Women in the English Women’s Super League. She continues to be a pivotal player for both her club and the Canadian national team, contributing her experience, skill, and leadership.
Conclusion: Celebrating Ashley Lawrence
Ashley Lawrence’s career is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and achievement. From her early days in Toronto to her success with PSG and Chelsea, and her triumphs with the Canadian national team, Lawrence has consistently demonstrated her quality and dedication to the sport.
At Cochrane Wolves FC, we celebrate Lawrence’s contributions to soccer and look to her career as an inspiration for our young players. Her journey reminds us that with hard work, passion, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the career of Ashley Lawrence. Stay tuned for more stories and insights from the world of soccer here at Cochrane Wolves FC!
