USL Feature Series: Keep an Eye on This Girl
During the 2012 season USLsoccer.com is highlighting the on-the-field stars of the W-League by getting to know their personalities off the field. Up next: Leah Fortune of the Charlotte Lady Eagles and Brazilian National Team. The Sao Paulo native has scored six goals for the Lady Eagles this season and has the team poised for a playoff run.
At the age of 17 Fortune’s ability to play at a high level was quickly noticed by the Brazilian national coaches. As Fortune returned to Brazil for a tournament with the U.S Olympic Development Program (ODP) in March 2007, she was immediately invited to play for Brazil.
In 2008 Fortune was a member of the U-20 National Team for which she earned 13 Caps and helped the team win the U-20 CONMEBOL championship. She also participated in the 2008 U-20 World Cup. Fortune’s success with the national team would only get better. She was a member of the Brazilian 2010 U-20 FIFA World Cup squad where she scored in Brazil’s 4-1 win against New Zealand. Fortune’s hard work and dedication for the national team allowed her to participate in the Brazilian Women’s National Team training camp as part of its training for the 2011 World Cup qualifying tournament.
Fortune is a current student at Lee University where she is majoring in communications. She recorded 18 goals and 24 assists for the Lady Flames as they ended the 2011 season with a record of 23-2-0 and captured an NAIA championship.
Full name: Leah Lynn Fortune
Born: Sao Paulo, Brazil
Position: Center mid, forward
Inspired me the most: When I learned the power the game of soccer has in building relationships and sharing the love of Christ.
Playing strengths: I enjoy the game and I enjoy winning.
Needs a bit of work: My game in the air.
Favorite player: My nephew, Dawson.
Tell us about your coach: He loves what he does.
Biggest career highlight: When I was in high school I fell in love with the game.
Biggest practical joker: Gosh, no clue!
Advice I would give to young girls following in my footsteps: Soccer is what you do, not who you are. It will not complete or fulfill you. However, play your heart out and do it well.
I’m stranded on a small island. Five things I’d want with me: Bible, boat and three people
Tunes I’m listening to: Sean McConnell and Green River Ordinance
Best movie seen recently: Can’t say I’ve seen a good one lately.
Retro item I wish would make a comeback: Vinyl records and hand-written letters.
Favorite movie: Gladiator
Describe yourself in five words: Passionate, fierce, honest, disciplined, saved
Finish This!
I can get enough of... long walks and quality deep conversations.
I spend my money on... good coffee.
My fashion style... depends on where I’m going.
Technology and social media is... great but way overused.
Over time I’ve learned... to love and be loved. I’m still learning.
Sometimes I need to... buy a plane ticket and explore another culture.
Every day I try to... fight for what I believe in. Oh, and call home.
I’m thankful for... grace.
My biggest influence... those closest to me.
I used to... think I could fly.
I always... am learning from the people around me.
I have friends... who are amazing and inspire me daily.
I play a bit like... not sure. You can decide.
If I wasn’t playing soccer I’d be... a wakeboarder, surfer, or doing some other sport.
In five years I see myself... traveling, loving people, pursuing Jesus and excited for the next year.