Kerry Abello proves a quick study for multiple positions with Orlando Pride

So what is Kerry Abello doing in the Orlando Pride lineup? One answer: staying ready to do nearly everything.

Sometimes supporters notice Kerry Abello moving to a different position on the pitch for Orlando Pride matches. They wonder, what can she do there, late in this match?

The better question about Kerry Abello is, “What can’t she do?”

In one of the latest matches when the Orlando Pride faced Bay City FC, Abello started at center back. Then, late in the match when substitutes came in, someone took her place. But she stayed on the pitch and worked the midfield alongside Angelina.

She started at center back? Most of the season she played left back.

Depending on where you look, Abello is listed as a defender, but may also be listed as a midfielder. This versatility has come naturally to the valuable player. It started in her standout college career with Penn State.

At Penn State, she showed more than ability at multiple positions. She proved proficiency at center back, full back, and forward.

Aug 23, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello (25) reacts in the first half against the Houston Dash at Shell Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images / Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

She was CoSIDA Academic All-American for 2020-21 and was named to their teams for three years. She earned All-North region honors twice. She was on three Big Ten Championship teams, winning two of those tournaments.

She earned honors on three Academic All-Big Ten teams, plus named three times as a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar. There are many other recognitions in her name.

She was on the U.S. National Team roster for under-14, under-15, under-17, under-18 and under-19.

In Penn State academics, she was involved in biomedical research focused on cancer. She double-majored in Spanish and science. She served as the fall 2021 student marshal for the College of the Liberal Arts.

The Orlando Pride picked her in the third round, 24th overall, in the 2021 NWSL Draft.

She has described her success with the Orlando Pride as coming from focus and preparation for each team. Then once the match is started, she and her teammates play with the confidence that they have each other’s backs.

With that confidence in their heads and hearts, the Orlando Pride is bringing home their greatest season and will deliver the NWSL championship to the city.

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