Seattle native Sally Menti embodies the ultimate homecoming story, seamlessly transitioning from a prodigious youth talent to a vital midfielder for her beloved hometown club, Reign FC. Her journey is a testament to unwavering dedication and the profound impact of deep-rooted connections to the Emerald City’s vibrant soccer scene, culminating in a professional dream realized.
Menti’s foundational years were steeped in Seattle’s competitive youth soccer landscape, where she honed her skills on local pitches. Her early triumphs, including multiple state championships with Seattle United, fostered an enduring love for the game and laid the groundwork for her future ascent. These formative experiences instilled a fierce competitive spirit and a deep appreciation for her local community.
As her talent blossomed, Menti sought more challenging environments, joining Redmond’s Crossfire Premier Soccer Club in eighth grade. This move allowed her to compete in the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), a crucial step in her development. Her consistent success at this elevated level further solidified her reputation as a formidable presence on the field, capable of performing under pressure.
Her collegiate career at Santa Clara University was marked by exceptional achievements, including leading the Broncos to a national title and earning the prestigious 2020 West Coast Conference (WCC) Freshman of the Year award. Menti’s impressive five-year tenure saw her named First Team All-WCC in her final two seasons, showcasing her consistent excellence and leadership as a midfielder.
Following a stellar college career, the path to professional soccer began with an invitation to train with Reign FC as a non-roster trialist. This opportunity quickly transformed into a short-term contract in March, a pivotal moment that brought her lifelong ambition to fruition and set the stage for her debut in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Menti’s immediate impact on Reign FC was undeniable. Making her first career start soon after signing, she recorded a crucial assist, contributing significantly to a 2-1 victory. Her presence coincided with a notable surge in the team’s offensive momentum, with the Reign scoring multiple goals in several matches, a stark improvement from their earlier season performance.
Her burgeoning career also included a call-up to the Under-23 women’s national team training camp, further validating her elite capabilities. Upon her return, Menti continued to shine for Reign FC, playing key roles in international-break friendlies, demonstrating her versatility and consistent high-level performance as the team geared up for regular-season play.
As Reign FC looks ahead to upcoming matches, Menti remains focused on continuous growth and deepening her relationships with teammates. Her aspiration is to further enhance the team’s chemistry, ensuring they are \”flying on all cylinders\” by the time playoffs arrive, a goal that underscores her commitment to both individual and collective success in women’s professional soccer.
