Missy Price: The Educator, Trailblazer, and Champion of Change in American Soccer
Dr. Missy Price’s journey through the world of soccer is one of unwavering passion, deep intellectual curiosity, and a relentless commitment to progress. From the fields of Pennsylvania, where she first kicked a ball at six years old, to the highest levels of coaching and executive leadership, Price has dedicated her life to shaping the game—not just for players, but for coaches, communities, and the very culture of soccer in America.
Her career spans multiple dimensions of the sport—player, coach, educator, and advocate—each role reinforcing her belief in soccer’s power to educate, unite, and inspire. Today, as the Vice President of Education & Development at US Club Soccer, Price is at the forefront of initiatives aimed at developing not only elite talent but well-rounded individuals who benefit from the lessons soccer teaches.
Beyond the field, her influence is undeniable. She is a mentor to young coaches, a champion for inclusivity, and a vocal advocate for women in leadership. But what shaped the trailblazer she has become? What moments defined her path? And how does she see the future of the game she has dedicated her life to?
In an in-depth conversation with Game on Wheels, Price shared her journey—from her early days as a player to her experiences coaching at the collegiate level to her vision for the future of American soccer.
Growing up in Pennsylvania, Price was drawn to soccer at an early age, but opportunities for young girls in the sport were scarce. “There weren’t nearly as many resources, teams, or community-based organizations as there are today,” she recalled. “Back then, you had to be really intentional about finding a path forward in the sport.”
Photo- 9 year old Missy Price during her youth soccer days at Deep Run Valley Sports Association
That determination led her to the University of Maryland, where she played as a goalkeeper while earning a degree in kinesiology. “It was a place where I felt both challenged and supported,” she said. “The culture of the program, the coaching staff, and the environment—it all shaped me.”
One of the most formative experiences of her youth came in high school when she had the chance to train alongside the Chinese Women’s National Team. “It was eye-opening,” she said. “Their discipline, their work ethic—it was different from anything I had seen before. It made me realize how global this game truly is.”
Even as she excelled on the field, Price’s analytical mind led her toward a deeper understanding of the game. Her studies in sport psychology and exercise science would later shape her coaching philosophy, emphasizing not just tactics and fitness, but also mental resilience, emotional intelligence, and leadership development.
“When I transitioned into coaching, I saw how much of the game is psychological,” Price said. “It’s not just about X’s and O’s. It’s about confidence, communication, and creating environments where players can thrive.”
Price’s coaching career took her across the country, from assistant coaching roles at Virginia, Illinois, and Miami to her head coaching stints at Nevada and Wellesley College. At each stop, she adapted to new challenges while maintaining her core philosophy: soccer is a vehicle for personal growth.
Photo- Missy slapping hands with player #10 when being subbed out at Wellesley College
Photo- Missy Price coaching from the sidelines at University of Nevada, Reno
“Every team, every environment is different,” she said. “As a coach, you have to be adaptable. You have to listen, learn, and figure out how to bring out the best in your players.”
Her time as head coach at Nevada was particularly significant. Taking over a program and shaping it in her vision required more than just soccer knowledge—it required leadership. “It’s easy to focus on wins and losses,” she said, “but what I really wanted to do was create a culture where players felt valued, supported, and pushed to be their best.”
Photo- Missy Price during her time as Head Coach of University of Nevada Women’s Soccer
But being a woman in coaching came with its challenges. In a 2016 interview with Soccer Today, Price spoke about the declining number of female coaches in the sport. Nearly a decade later, she acknowledges that progress has been made but insists there is still work to do.
“We’ve seen more visibility and more opportunities for women in coaching,” she said, “but there’s still an underrepresentation at the highest levels. We need to keep pushing for systemic change.”
Her advocacy for gender equity extends beyond coaching. As a former president of United Soccer Coaches, she helped spearhead programs designed to elevate women and minorities in the game. Now, in her role at US Club Soccer, she is focused on ensuring that the next generation of coaches and leaders have the support they need.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Price has also been a vocal advocate for inclusivity in soccer. “There have been times where people tried to silence my identity,” she admitted. “But I refuse to let that define me. Representation matters, and I want to make sure the next generation of players and coaches don’t have to navigate the same barriers.”
Photo- Missy and family on the cover of soccer journal after being named 73rd president of United soccer coaches in 2021
At US Club Soccer, she has made it a priority to create an environment where all players—regardless of background, ethnicity, or identity—feel supported. “It’s not just about access,” she said. “It’s about making sure that when someone walks into a soccer space, they feel like they belong.”
One of the most impactful programs under her leadership is the id2 Program, which identifies and develops elite youth players from all backgrounds. “We’ve seen some incredible success stories,” Price shared. “Kids who might have been overlooked are now getting opportunities to showcase their talent on a national stage. That’s what it’s all about—expanding access and breaking down barriers.”
Photo-Missy Price(red suit) giving out awards at the United Soccer Coaches Award Ceremony (in her role as president)
When asked about the role of club soccer within the larger U.S. soccer pyramid, Price was clear: “It’s critical. Club soccer is where so much of player development happens. If we get it right at this level—if we prioritize education, mental development, and inclusivity—we’re going to see long-term benefits at every level of the sport.”
Looking ahead, she remains committed to pushing for innovation within the system. “I want to see more investment in coaching education, more resources for underserved communities, and more intentional pathways for players to reach their potential.”
But beyond the structures and strategies, Price’s ultimate goal is to ensure that the game continues to be a source of joy, growth, and opportunity. “At the end of the day, soccer is about people,” she said. “It’s about the relationships we build, the lessons we learn, and the communities we create. That’s what keeps me going.”
Photo- Missy Price Headshot when she was named VP of women’s soccer at USL
With more than two decades in the game, Missy Price’s impact on American soccer is undeniable. She has shaped players, coaches, and entire organizations, all while breaking down barriers and advocating for a more inclusive, equitable sport.
Her journey—from a young girl playing in Pennsylvania, to a goalkeeper at Maryland, to a leader in U.S. soccer—embodies what it means to be a true game-changer.
Photo- Missy Price(wearing yellow)in the playing goal at the University of Maryland. as a sophomore.
When asked how she wants to be remembered, she didn’t hesitate. “I hope people see me as someone who cared. Someone who invested in people, who pushed for change, and who made the game better for the next generation.”
In a sport that is constantly evolving, one thing is certain: Missy Price’s influence will be felt for years to come.
Photo- Missy Price wearing her Doctoral Regalia while attending graduation with seniors at Wellesley College.