Houston Dash midfielder Zoe Matthews, who turned 17 in May, is making her mark in pro soccer.

On Oct. 11, Matthews made history as the youngest player ever signed to the Houston Dash and the youngest Black American to join the National Women’s Soccer League. A week later on Oct. 18, she suited up in her No. 27 jersey for her debut against Seattle Reign FC.

Matthews began her soccer career by kicking flat basketballs against the wall of her family’s garage. As she progressed through youth soccer leagues, she took her talents to the international stage.

At 15 years old, she was called to play for the Jamaican senior women’s national team. She was also a member of the U.S. U-16 women’s national team that won the Mondial Montaigu Football Tournament in France in 2023 and is currently playing on the U.S. U-19 team as it prepares for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Her achievements at such a young age attracted attention from scouts across the nation. She ultimately committed to LSU before electing to go pro and signing with the Houston Dash.

“At this age not everyone can say that they’re a professional athlete, and I think that it’s really amazing, you know, for the Black community and just for the soccer community in general,” Matthews said. “I think it’s a big thing for women’s sports … I think it’s really special and really important.”

Matthews was raised in a family deeply rooted in sports. Her uncle, Odell James, played quarterback and free safety at Baylor University, and her great-grandfather, a member of the Jamaican national team, played with reggae artist Bob Marley.

Matthews attributes much of her success to the unwavering support from her family. She said their love is the driving force behind her achievements.

“They’ve been here throughout my whole entire journey, and they’ve sacrificed so much,” Matthews said. “The fact that they’re still there, loving and caring for me every single day, I think is really important.”

Matthews is navigating the balance between her youth and life as a pro athlete. To stay grounded, she prioritizes her family and faith, relying on her loved ones for support and guidance during the transition to a pro career.

“You can make it to where you want to be. You just have to have a dream,” Matthews said. “He’s [God] given me everything, and so I give that glory to him. And you know, I just hope that on my platform I can inspire younger generations.”

Matthews draws inspiration from legendary athletes who have shaped soccer such as her favorite player and top goal scorer Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr FC. Matthews said athletes like him motivate her to never give up.

“One person that I look up to the most, especially in women’s soccer, is [former U.S. women’s national team member] Carli Lloyd,” Matthews said. “I think that she’s an amazing player, and especially off the field. Her work goes unnoticed, but I think it’s very special the things that she’s done.”

“I just want to be someone that people can look up to and see that, hey, she’s a hard worker. She doesn’t come from much, but she made a name out of herself, and I want to make my family proud,” Matthews said. “To be one of the first African American young kids to go pro, I think that’s really important, and to just show other generations that this is possible.”

Hoping to leave a legacy that extends far beyond the field, she aspires to pursue a career in business law or criminal justice. Matthews hopes to create a positive environment with access to resources for all young athletes.

“Zoe has an opportunity to be a trailblazer in that way … but then also showing the next generation like, hey, you can do this too,” Jason Matthews said. “It’s not just about your speed and athleticism. You’re technical, you’re smart, you’re capable.”

With dual citizenship in Jamaica and the United States, Matthews can represent either the U.S. or Jamaica at the senior national team level. While she hasn’t yet decided which national team to represent, one thing is certain — her goal is to become one of the best players in the world.

“That’s what I’m striving for. That’s everything I’ve been working on my whole entire life,” Matthews said. 

Edvaldo Pedro, Matthews’ former coach at Allegiance Academy where he is athletic director, has seen Matthews’ growth and dedication firsthand. He believes her relentless drive has brought her to a pivotal moment in her career.

“Coaching Zoe has been a great experience. She’s got a great personality, she’s disciplined, responsible and has an amazing work ethic. If she maintains the right people around her, she could evolve into one of the best players ever,” Pedro said.

Matthews’ family is more than willing to support her in this pursuit.

“Our expectation is, hey, we will exhaust everything to support you and your dreams … I don’t care what it is, whatever that is, just work to be the best at it,” Jason Matthews said. “You put in all of your effort, all of your time, and we’ll support you as much as we can.”

“I’m just excited to see what the Lord will allow to happen next, and I know that without a doubt whatever it is, I will be in the stands or on the sideline cheering her on as her biggest fan,” Angie Matthews said.