PLAYER PROFILE: SHEA GROOM, ‘I WOULD LOVE TO STAY HERE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE’

Groom leads the team with four goals and two assists

Shea Groom, a Liberty, Missouri native, has quickly made a name for herself in the National Women’s Soccer League as an aggressive forward who has a knack for finding the back of the net. Weather it be off her head, right or left foot, Groom already boasts four goals and two assists in her rookie season.

Prior to FC Kansas City selecting Groom as their first pick (12^th overall) in the 2024 NWSL College Draft, she had a wildly successful career as an Aggie, playing at Texas A&M University. A three-time All SEC selection, two-time Capital One Academic All American, Groom played in 84 matches, including 79 starts where she recorded 41 goals and 25 assists in her four-year career, good for 107 points. Groom still owns the Aggie record for game-winning goals, with 15.

Before leaving Missouri she made her mark in Kansas City Soccer. Groom was named Gatorade Player of the Year twice, Missouri Player of the Year, and was a State Champion eight times plus a National Champion while playing club ball.

Huw Williams, Assistant Coach and Director of Soccer Operations, coached Groom to three State Championship titles and one National Championship as a youth club player in Kansas City.

“Shea [Groom] has shown flashes in her early career of having the ability to be an impact player at this level; her burst of speed has proven to be a difference maker. She has the mentality to want to compete and succeed.” Williams said.

Clearly, she has made a name for herself wherever given the chance to play. However, there is more to the small framed, speedy forward. Groom is as humble and gracious as they come. She views every day as a blessing and opportunity to live her dream.

“Kansas City is a perfect fit for me to start my professional career. Everyone is on the same page. We’re all here to get better and off field, love on each other. We’ve developed friendships that will last a lifetime.” Groom said.

Groom has both contributed to and is a product the growth we’ve seen in Kansas City soccer. She is a trailblazer, taking her talents to the next level while recognizing the special opportunity she has in front of her.

“A few years ago girls couldn’t play pro ball and this couldn’t be your job. I’m so grateful I have the opportunity to do so. I do love every minute and wouldn’t trade it for the world. “ Groom said.

Sidelined for the next few weeks with a hairline fracture in her right foot, Groom will be cheering on her team as the Blues host the Houston Dash this Monday July 20 at 7:00 p.m. CT.