Mandy McGlynn, now known as Mandy Haught, has built a reputation as one of the top goalkeepers in women's soccer. From her early days in Jacksonville, Florida, to playing professionally in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), she has shown resilience, skill, and determination. Her journey is one of dedication and continuous improvement, making her a role model for aspiring goalkeepers.
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Early Life and Youth Career
Mandy McGlynn was born on November 3, 1998, in Jacksonville, Florida. She grew up playing soccer and quickly developed a passion for goalkeeping. Her natural reflexes, agility, and strong mentality made her stand out from a young age.
She played youth soccer for Jacksonville FC (formerly known as Jacksonville Armada Youth Academy). Her performances at the club level helped her gain recognition as one of the top young goalkeepers in Florida. By the time she reached high school at Sandalwood High School, she had already built a strong reputation.
McGlynn's success in youth soccer led to an opportunity to play at the collegiate level. Virginia Tech became her next destination, where she continued her development in the competitive environment of NCAA Division I soccer.
Collegiate Career at Virginia Tech
McGlynn joined the Virginia Tech Hokies in 2016 and quickly became a key player for the team. As a freshman, she showed great promise, earning multiple starts and making crucial saves. Over her four years at Virginia Tech, she improved every season, becoming one of the top goalkeepers in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Her shot-stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and leadership skills made her an essential part of the team. She earned All-ACC honors and was named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Region team. By the time she graduated in 2020, she had cemented her legacy as one of the best goalkeepers in Virginia Tech’s history.
Professional Career and the NWSL Draft
Mandy McGlynn entered the 2020 NWSL Draft and was selected by Sky Blue FC (now known as NJ/NY Gotham FC) with the No. 20 overall pick. This was a significant moment in her career, as she became the first-ever Virginia Tech player to be drafted into the NWSL.
However, her time with Sky Blue FC was short-lived. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and roster competition, she did not make her official NWSL debut with the club. Instead, she looked for opportunities elsewhere to gain playing time and experience.
Move to Iceland and International Experience
In 2021, McGlynn signed with Þróttur Reykjavík, a club in the Icelandic top division. This move gave her the chance to play regular first-team football and develop her skills in a new environment. She adapted quickly to European football and became a key player for the team.
Her performances in Iceland earned her recognition, and she soon attracted interest from other clubs. Playing abroad helped her gain experience and confidence, which would prove valuable for her next challenge in the NWSL.
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Return to the NWSL: Utah Royals FC
In 2023, McGlynn returned to the NWSL, signing with the newly re-established Utah Royals FC. This was a fresh start for her in the league, and she quickly made an impact. Competing for the starting goalkeeper position, she showed her ability to make big saves, organize the defense, and lead from the back.
Playing in the NWSL is a significant challenge for any goalkeeper, but McGlynn has embraced it. She continues to work hard to establish herself as one of the top shot-stoppers in the league.
Playing Style and Strengths
Mandy McGlynn is known for her strong reflexes and quick decision-making. As a goalkeeper, she excels in several key areas:
- Shot-stopping: She has excellent reactions and positioning, making her difficult to beat in one-on-one situations.
- Command of the box: She organizes her defense well and is confident in coming off her line to claim crosses.
- Distribution: Modern goalkeepers need to be good with their feet, and McGlynn has improved her passing and kicking.
- Leadership: She has always been vocal on the field, guiding her teammates and maintaining focus under pressure.
Her well-rounded skill set makes her a reliable presence in goal, and she continues to refine her game as she gains more experience.
Future with the U.S. Women’s National Team?
While McGlynn has yet to earn a senior cap for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT), she has been on the radar of U.S. Soccer for years. She previously played for the U.S. U-23 team, gaining valuable international experience.
With goalkeeping spots always competitive in the USWNT, McGlynn will need to keep improving to earn a call-up. If she continues to perform well in the NWSL, she could get an opportunity to prove herself at the international level.
Challenges and Determination
Like many professional athletes, McGlynn has faced obstacles throughout her career. From limited playing time early in the NWSL to adapting to a new country in Iceland, she has consistently found ways to overcome challenges.
Her ability to stay positive, work hard, and remain focused on her goals has been crucial to her success. She serves as an example for young goalkeepers who aspire to play at the highest level.
Conclusion: A Goalkeeper on the Rise
Mandy McGlynn’s journey from Jacksonville to the NWSL and beyond is a testament to her dedication and talent. Her development as a goalkeeper has been impressive, and she continues to improve each season.
With her return to the NWSL, she has a chance to solidify herself as one of the league’s best shot-stoppers. If she keeps performing at a high level, a call-up to the USWNT could be in her future.
For now, she remains focused on helping Utah Royals FC compete in the NWSL, proving that she belongs among the elite goalkeepers in women’s soccer. Her story is still being written, and the best may be yet to come.
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