There’s something different about Ashlyn Harris in year two with the Orlando Pride.
“It’s very liberating for sure,” joked Harris when asked about her drastic hair cut from long and blonde to short, shaved and dark.The obvious change in hairstyle aside, the Cocoa Beach native has continued to grow in her role with the club, with more responsibility as captain, and added pressure as returning Goalkeeper of the Year.
“I think the beauty of life is continuing to grow, and that’s what I’m doing,” said Harris. “Every opportunity I get to grow, I embrace it. I keep evolving and changing to be the best version of myself and it’s easy to do with such great people around me.”
Even in year two, it’s all still a bit surreal for the Satellite High School graduate.
“I started here with the Seminole Ice, I started here as a kid and I played on these fields as a little girl and to still be out here at my age is pretty surreal some days,” said Harris. “I love it and I don’t take it for granted, that’s for sure.”
Playing nearly in her backyard does have it’s perks –
“This weekend I have 16 tickets for family members, so got a good group, good group coming.”
But the captain would have a following regardless thanks to her aggressive play. Especially considering her save this past weekend that Twitter had a field day with.
“Now all of a sudden everyone is calling me Air Jaws after my header this past weekend and I’m just like sure I’ll take it.”
Harris has worked her way to the top of women’s soccer with highlight plays and a strong work ethic. And she is ready for more growth in year two.