Sam Coffey, the 26-year-old midfielder for the U.S. women’s national team and Portland Thorns, has garnered international attention for her affinity for Squishmallows, the popular plush toys.
Recently, after a press conference in Monterrey, Mexico, during the Concacaf W Champions League, a local reporter surprised her with two Squishmallows inspired by Mexican cuisine, including one that resembled guacamole and a chip.
This gesture, among others from fans who offer stuffed toys in exchange for autographs, has deeply resonated with Coffey, who acknowledges that while her affection for these toys may seem niche or childish, it reflects a more profound aspect of her journey and personality.
As Coffey embraces her role as captain for the Thorns, she faces the challenge of stepping into leadership positions against the backdrop of notable retirements on the team. Veterans Christine Sinclair, Becky Sauerbrunn, and Meghan Klingenberg are no longer with the Thorns, which means Coffey must forge her path without their guidance while still paying homage to their legacies.
The start of the NWSL season was bumpy for the Thorns, with a record of 1-2-2. However, on April 22, they turned things around with a dominant 4-1 victory over Gotham FC, marking a turning point in the season. This victory was significant not only for the team but also a testament to Coffey’s effective leadership, as rookie Caiya Hanks attributed the performance to Coffey’s motivational pregame speech.
While Coffey acknowledges her transition from a secondary leadership role last season to captain this year feels seamless from the outside, she is aware of the challenges that come with each game and practice.
“It’s interesting to hear that it looks seamless because it doesn’t always feel that way,” she reflected, recognizing the adjustments required for both newer players and herself.
Coffey has been working hard to develop her own leadership style, inspired by the lessons taught to her by Sinclair and Sauerbrunn.
“A servant leadership approach is really important to me and ties into my faith,” Coffey shared. “I strive to prioritize my teammates’ needs and invest in those around me, whether they’re in the starting lineup or not.”
Additionally, Coffey aims to raise the standards on the pitch, ensuring that the Thorns consistently strive toward their highest potential.
The newly formed veteran trio of Coffey, Olivia Moultrie, and Japan’s Hina Sugita has provided a solid midfield foundation, complemented by youthful talents like Caiya Hanks, Deyna Castellanos, Mimi Alidou, Payton Linnehan, Pietra Tordin, and Reilyn Turner. Despite their earlier struggles, the Thorns are now enjoying a five-match unbeaten streak in the league and presently sit fifth in the NWSL standings.
“We will honor and cherish the legacy of players like Sinclair, Klingenberg, and Sauerbrunn, who laid the foundation for us. We take that responsibility seriously,” Coffey stated, excited to write a new chapter in their honor.
As the U.S. women’s national team gears up for its next matches against China and Jamaica, Coffey’s role remains critical. Under head coach Emma Hayes, Coffey is a key player in the midfield, with 33 appearances—the second-most after Lindsey Heaps.
With varying degrees of national team experience among her teammates, Coffey remains enthusiastic about the team’s future.
“We have exceptional talent in this position, and I am excited to see how this unfolds as we grow and learn together,” she said, highlighting her optimism about the USWNT’s midfield dynamic.
Coffey believes that the coaching strategies under Hayes provide a better platform for players to excel.
“Emma is one of the most methodical coaches I’ve ever met. She approaches everything with purpose. Players are being positioned to succeed in ways that may push them out of their comfort zones,” Coffey explained, referring to the recent match against Brazil where younger players took on challenging roles.
“Experiences like these prepare us for the significant tournaments coming in 2027 and 2028,” she stated. “Our priority will always be to win, but nurturing our development is equally crucial.”
With the upcoming matches against China and Jamaica, who will be missing key players like Bunny Shaw, Drew Spence, and Becky Spencer, Coffey is aware that these games serve an important purpose beyond just winning.
“While the competition might not be as fierce as against Brazil, each match will be a test of our depth and internal competition,” she remarked, expressing her commitment to the process ahead.
Reflecting on the young talent in the squad, Coffey expressed excitement about creating strong partnerships in time for the 2027 World Cup.
“I’m thrilled by our younger players like Lily and Claire. Having them in the fold has been incredibly rewarding. As we build partnerships, I know that by 2027, we will have something special,” she concluded, determined to lead her team into this new era.
image source from：https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6392007/2025/05/30/uswnt-portland-thorns-sam-coffey-devotion/
