Through Hell And Back

Kelley O’Hara, USA

Hello world, my name is Kelley O'Hara. I play for the USWNT and Utah Royals of the NWSL.

What has been your football journey up until now? 

I started playing soccer when I was 4 years old. I played club soccer in GA before going to Stanford for college. I was a forward my whole life until Pia Sundhage told me in the fall of 2011 that if I wanted to make the 2012 Olympic team I would need to move to outside back, so I did. Football has given me some of my highest highs and lowest lows of my life, and I wouldn't change any of it. 

Who is in the photos? Where were the photos taken?

These photos are of my teammates on the USWNT and me. They were taken during our training camp in the beginning of May in San Jose, which was part of our World Cup prep and Send Off Series. 

What did you try to show with the photos? Was there any wider meaning with any of the photos?

Just life in camp. I thought the photo of me looking down at my legs after practice with ice on showed the not so glamorous side of our lives. With injuries and just the day-to-day grind, we put our bodies through hell and back sometimes to be able to play this sport. 

What is your favourite photo? Why?

Probably the ice one. Just because it seems quiet and simple, but there is a lot of history and emotion connected to what I'm actually feeling and thinking in that moment taking the picture. 

Are there any good stories connected with the people you photographed?

Just 22 of my best friends getting ready for the biggest games of our lives. 

What does football mean to you? Do you have a message for the next generation of young female footballers?

Football is the greatest sport on earth. I hope that the generations that come after I am done playing continue to push the sport forward and get even more respect and attention that they deserve. 

What is the future for US women's football?

There will hopefully be a continued upward trajectory in all aspects surrounding the team and the NWSL. A lot goes into making change happen, so only time will tell on that one.