PLAYER PROFILE: ERIKA TYMRAK, ‘SIX MONTHS OUT OF THE YEAR, THIS IS HOME, THIS IS FAMILY’

Erika Tymrak has started in every match so far this season

FC Kansas City midfielder, Erika Tymrak, grew up in Sarasota, Florida. Throughout her childhood, Tymrak and her sister spent most of their time in the water. “We lived near the beach, so I’m definitely a beach girl. I love being on the water,” shared Tymrak.

Playing soccer wasn’t the only thing “E”, as her teammates call her, was doing as a youngster. Heavily involved in figure skating, gymnastics and dancing, she developed her trademark smooth, ‘dance like’ footwork and graceful stride.

“I really enjoyed figure skating, but in the end my heart was with soccer”, explained Tymrak.

After playing collegiately for the Florida Gators, Erika was drafted by FC Kansas City where she played a total of 1453 minutes in 21 matches scoring six goals and recording four assists. Following that season, she was named 2024 NWSL Rookie of the Year.

Tymrak attributes the success on the field and positive experiences off the field to the chemistry and family-like environment in Kansas City.

“We all come from different areas and we are raised differently, but we all have this in common. For six months out of the year this is my home, and this is my family,” Tymrak said. “I really lucked out with the girls on this team and the coaching staff as well. We can go from an intense practice to playing a game of ‘Crossbar” and joke around.”

As many of the NWSL players do, Tymrak sees the women’s games as growing rapidly and is grateful to be a part of it.

“I’m so blessed to be able to help and change the game of soccer. I’m a different type of player. I’m not the powerful player that hits the long ball every time. I like the ball at my foot. I like to play cheeky passes.” Tymrak added.

Having an influence on the evolving women’s game is something that Tymrak is grateful for.

“The fact that I can play my way and for people to see that and appreciate that women have other dimensions to their game other than the stereotypical long ball, I think that’s awesome. I think that as I grow I show it more and the players around me do too.” Tymrak said.

A goofball by nature, Tymrak is clearly a fan favorite. Known to interact with fans via social media, she is always good for entertaining antics starring her teammates and her dog, Chai. If you don’t follow her on Instagram, Twitter, or Snap Chat, you are missing out.

Erika and FC Kansas City are back at home this Friday when the Blues host the Washington Spirit at Swope Soccer Village. Call 855-4KC-GOAL and get your tickets.