Megan Rapinoe, an icon in the professional soccer realm, was born on July 5, 1985, in Redding, California. The first coaches and greatest supporters of her sports career, her parents Denise and Jim Rapinoe, nourished her interest in soccer from an early age. Rapinoe’s roots lie in a patriotic family of Irish-American heritage, steeped in a proud lineage of military service to their nation. Her father Jim was drafted during the Vietnam War, while her grandfather, a World War II veteran, lived with the family. Even her maternal grandfather had an extensive military past, serving in the Korean War and enduring numerous injuries.
Megan Rapinoe’s Introduction to Soccer
Playing on a Boys’ Team
Recognizing Megan’s passion for soccer, her father introduced her to the competitive sport at the tender age of nine. During this period in Redding, California, girls had limited opportunities to play, so Megan found herself playing on a boys’ team for a year. Although she had a talent for the game, the physicality of playing with boys posed a significant challenge.
Jim Rapinoe: A Father and A Coach
With a scarcity of girls’ teams and coaches, Jim Rapinoe stepped into the role of her coach for about three years. The task of organizing a girls’ team was no mean feat, but his dedication paved the way for Megan to follow her soccer ambitions.
Rapinoe’s Soccer Journey and Accomplishments
Path to Professional Soccer
Rapinoe’s promising career skyrocketed when she was selected as the second overall pick in the 2009 WPS Draft by the Chicago Red Stars. Her journey in professional soccer continued to expand as she inked a guest player contract with Sydney FC, an Australian W-League team, in October 2011. Today, she has emerged as a commanding winger for the OL Reign in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and represents the United States national team.
Megan Rapinoe’s Siblings
A Diverse and Large Family
Coming from a large and diverse family, Megan Rapinoe shares a special bond with her fraternal twin, Rachael Rapinoe, and her older brother, Brian Rapinoe. Denise and Jim Rapinoe raised seven children, including Megan, Rachael, Brian, and two step-siblings, Michael and Jenny, from Denise’s previous marriage.
Influence of Older Brother, Brian Rapinoe
Megan was influenced by her older brother Brian, who kindled her interest in soccer. However, his life took a grim turn when he fell into drug addiction during her early school years. By the time Megan was ten, Brian had entered juvenile detention and had subsequent incarcerations in various prisons.
Soccer Bond with Twin Sister, Rachael Rapinoe
Megan’s twin sister Rachael also shared the passion for soccer, playing as a midfielder and forward. Together, the two sisters organized youth soccer camps, further deepening their bond through their shared love of the sport.
Embracing Her Irish-Italian Heritage
Rapinoe proudly identifies with her Irish-American heritage. Her ethnic background comprises a mix of Italian ancestry from her paternal grandfather and Irish roots, symbolizing a harmonious blend of Italian and Gaelic cultures. Looking back at her family history, her Irish immigrant great-grandfather and his five surviving sisters embarked on a journey to the United States, making Philadelphia their new home. This interwoven tale of family, heritage, and unwavering dedication to soccer shapes the formidable player known as Megan Rapinoe.
