Katie Schoepfer, head coach of the United States Under-17 Women’s Youth National Team, announced the 21 players selected to represent the U.S. at the 2024 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup, taking place in the Dominican Republic from Oct. 16 to Nov. 3.
For the first time in history, the U.S. roster for the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup will include professional players. Players born on or after January 1, 2007, are eligible for this World Cup. Schoepfer selected 16 players born in 2007 and five born in 2008. At the start of the tournament, 15 players will be 17 years old, while six will be 16. This group features Dallas Trinity FC players Kiara Gilmore, Jordyn Hardeman and Evan O’Steen.
Other players include Kennedy Fuller, a midfielder from Angel City FC; Melanie Barcenas and Kimmi Ascanio, midfielders from San Diego Wave FC; and Ainsley McCammon, a midfielder from Seattle Reign.
"Leading this group through their first World Cup is a true honor and I know everyone is very excited to play in a World Cup and use this unique opportunity to grow as people and players,” said Schoepfer in an official statement. “This is an important stepping-stone in the development of these young, talented athletes. The team has continued to evolve since the qualifying tournament and are focused on preparing to play their best. The experience of representing the United States on the world's biggest stage for this age group will be an amazing challenge and I know it will create lifelong memories."
The USA will begin its Group B campaign on Oct. 16, facing reigning champions Spain at Felix Sanchez Stadium in Santo Domingo at 3 p.m. The team will then take on Colombia on Oct.19 at 6 p.m. in Santo Domingo. The USA will conclude the first round against the Korea Republic on Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. at CFC Stadium in Santiago de los Caballeros. All tournament matches will be available in English on FS2 or Fox Soccer Plus, and in Spanish on the Telemundo family of networks.
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