Heather O'Reilly
Midfielder / Winger · Western New York Flash · USA
About Heather O'Reilly
Heather O'Reilly was a pacy, relentless winger who earned 231 caps for the United States — a model of consistency and athleticism across three Olympic campaigns and four World Cups.
Heather O'Reilly's story
New Jersey & UNC
Heather O'Reilly was born on 2 January 1985 in East Brunswick, New Jersey. She attended the University of North Carolina — the birthplace of so many USWNT stars — and was one of the most dynamic wingers in college football. She turned professional after college and made her senior debut as a teenager.
The Super Sub
O'Reilly was often used as a supersub by the USWNT, her pace and directness making her devastating when introduced late in matches. She came off the bench to score in the 2004 Olympic final, helping the USA beat Brazil for gold. She did the same in 2008, cementing her status as one of the most reliable impact players in international football.
Arsenal & Later Career
After a career in the WUSA and WPS, O'Reilly spent time in England with Arsenal Ladies (WSL), adding a European chapter to her resume. She returned to the NWSL with multiple clubs before retiring in 2017. Her 231 caps placed her among the most capped players in USWNT history at the time of her retirement.
Legacy
O'Reilly was a three-time Olympic gold medallist and World Cup winner — one of only a handful of players to have won that combination of honours. Since retiring she has been involved in coaching and youth development, living in New Jersey with her family.
Did you know?
- O'Reilly scored as a substitute in both the 2004 and 2008 Olympic finals — making her one of the most clutch players in USWNT history.
- She earned her first USWNT cap aged just 17, becoming one of the youngest players in the programme's history to debut at that level.
- O'Reilly married former college footballer Graham Larsen in 2015; the couple live in New Jersey where she has been involved in football development after retirement.
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