From ESYDA to the U.S. Women’s National Team: Nyanya Touray’s Soccer Journey
Nyanya Touray’s rise in the world of soccer is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of a supportive community. Now a promising talent with the U.S. Youth National Team, Touray’s story begins on the humble fields of ESYDA, where her love for the game took root at the tender age of five.
“I dedicated 7 years to ESYDA before joining Bethesda Soccer Club in the summer of 2020,” Touray recalls. Those early years were formative, laying the groundwork for a journey that would take her from local pitches to national recognition. “When I first set foot on the soccer fields of this club, I was a young and ambitious player with a dream and an intense passion for the sport,” she says. “Little did I know that this club and its amazing community would shape me into the player I am today.”
At ESYDA, Touray found more than just a place to play—she discovered a second family. “ESYDA was where I learned the true essence of teamwork, discipline, and dedication,” she explains. The coaches, with their generosity and wisdom, played a pivotal role in her development. “They stressed the importance of pushing my limits, striving for excellence, and never settling for mediocrity,” Touray notes. Beyond technical skills and tactical know-how, they instilled values that continue to guide her both on and off the field. The camaraderie among teammates and the unwavering support of the club community became the bedrock of her success.
When Touray transitioned to Bethesda Soccer Club, she carried those lessons with her, using them to elevate her game to new heights. Her time at Bethesda has been marked by remarkable achievements: attending three U.S. ID camps, earning a spot on the ECL All-Conference team, participating in the ECL Conference Cup, and, most recently—about two months ago—receiving her first call-up to the U.S. Youth National Team. “While these accomplishments are incredible,” she says, “I’ll always cherish my roots and the mentors who taught me the game.”
Reflecting on her journey, Touray remains deeply grateful for the role ESYDA played in her life. “As I look back at the milestones I’ve achieved, once mere dreams, I cannot overstate the profound impact this club has had on me,” she shares. Her heartfelt thanks extend to the coaches who guided her, the teammates who believed in her, and the entire ESYDA community that nurtured her talent from the start. “Thank you for your guidance and mentorship,” she says. “Thank you for believing in me.”
Nyanya Touray’s story is far from over, but her path from ESYDA to the U.S. Youth National Team serves as an inspiring reminder of where dedication and a strong foundation can lead. With her roots firmly planted and her eyes set on the future, Touray is a rising star whose journey is just beginning.
