Tara McKeown: From Forward to Center Back

Adaptability has been a key feature of Tara McKeown’s career with the Washington Spirit since her transition from forward to center-back. In the 2021 NWSL Draft, McKeown was drafted as a forward. McKeown’s offensive journey began at the University of Southern California, where she transitioned from fullback to forward, quickly establishing herself as a potent attacking threat. She received the 2019 Pac-12 Forward of the Year honors. Plus, she became a semifinalist for the Mac Hermann Trophy.

 

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According to a Washington Post article, McKeown was known for her attacking output in college. She was a leader at USC, with the fourth most goals and points in the university’s history. Additionally, McKeown had a knack for finding the back of the net and creating scoring opportunities. In her senior year, she scored or had an assist in 10 out of 14 games.

Her coaches at Spirit recognized her tactical awareness, versatility, and strong defensive instincts. As a result, they decided to switch her into the center-back position. As a former forward, she naturally excelled, able to anticipate an attacker’s move.

But McKeown’s position flexibility isn’t new—during U.S. National Youth Camps, she also played center back.

“I just kind of know from being a forward that there’s only like two crosses your teammates will get on the end of the most,” McKeown explained in an article with District Press.

Her ability to read the game and anticipate moves has also made her an exceptional and trustworthy teammate.

“She’s such a consistent, physical presence that she’s always bodying a player, always making big defensive plays back there. I trust her a lot back there. It makes my job easier when I trust the person behind me who’s directing me and making those big plays,” midfielder Hal Hershfelt said in the article.

 

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Her role was instrumental in keeping The Spirit in the playoffs. McKeown scored an equalizer goal in the November 10 game against Bay FC, forcing extra time. Ultimately, this led the team to a victory, eliminating Bay FC.

In just her second season as a center-back, McKeown’s willingness to adapt, anticipate offensive moves, and create opportunities on the field has contributed to the Spirit’s place in the finals. They are now facing off against Orlando Pride on November 23. This has also solidified her as a valuable asset to her team–no matter her position.

Featured image via @taraamkeown

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