Two former soccer standouts from Northern Colorado are making their mark on the world stage by competing together for the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team.

Former youth soccer teammates Sophia Smith and Jaelin Howell made their national team debuts for the defending World Cup Champions during a friendly match against the Netherlands on Friday (Nov. 27).

According to the Coloradoan, both also have ties to Fossil Ridge High School in Fort Collins: Smith graduated from there and Howell started her high school career as a Sabercat.

Smith became the first player born in the 2000's to play for the USWNT (man I feel old) when she came on as a sub in the 75th minute. Smith previously captured a national title at Stanford and became the first teenager to go No. 1 in the NWSL soccer draft.

Jaelin Howell entered the game in the 89th minute to help finish up the 2-0 victory was recently named ACC defender of the year and won a national title with Florida State back in 2018.

As a father, I can't imagine the amount of pride the parents are feeling for these incredible young women, I know just being a resident of Northern Colorado...we are so happy for them and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors in particular...bringing ANOTHER World Cup back to the states in 2023.

Source: Coloradoan

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