Manchester, England
When not diving on a soccer field, I find myself diving into the nearest body of water. Currently, I am a professional goalkeeper for Manchester United. Although I live across the pond now, I grew up admiring slipper snail shells, spiraling whelk egg cases, and the spindly legs of horseshoe crabs on the shores of Long Island. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marine science and biology, as well as a Master of Professional Science degree at the University of Miami, I was opened to the world of research, conservation, and scuba diving! Fast forwarding through my professional start in France and awesome, sea slug-filled dives in the Puget Sound while playing for Seattle Reign–I, so luckily, find myself playing for a club with one of the richest histories in English football. Playing in front of our supporters is a thrill, but my passion for showcasing and protecting our ocean is unwavering. With the help of 11th Hour Racing, I hope to continue to use my platform for science communication and storytelling to display the wild wonders of the ocean and how we can help conserve what we love.
What inspired you to become an 11th Hour Racing ambassador?
After being forwarded an email sent straight to the inbox of the head coach of United States Women’s National Team inquiring if I’d be interested in joining 11th Hour Racing’s mission, I knew I would love to be involved with an organization willing to put in such an immense behind the scenes effort with a clear passion for inspiring change for a healthier ocean. I am so excited to join as an 11th Hour Racing Ambassador to continue the collective devoted drive for conserving our oceans to ensure our planet is even more beautiful for those after us.
Why are you passionate about ocean conservation?
Home to the weird and wonderful, the ocean’s inhabitants hooked my interest as far back as I can remember. Whether it’s the boat ride back to shore after a dive blessed by a common cuttlefish or a robin on a branch at the park singing its song- that heart filling feeling of being connected to nature is why I am passionate about conservation. To give back to a planet that gives us so much.
I hope to help expand marine protected areas and inspire the next wave of young ocean stewards, so that future generations can still be a little freaked out at first sight of a horseshoe crab, then forever curious and respectful of what lies beneath the sea.
Supporting the mission
Project name: Common
Project mission: When “common” becomes critically endangered, a mini-documentary expedition to find and help conserve the United Kingdom’s Common Skate.
