Shelby Hogan: From Providence to Providence Park

Shelby Hogan's journey to the Portland Thorns has been anything but typical.

Shelby Hogan was the Providence Friars’ star goalkeeper from 2016 to 2019 | Credit: Providence College Athletics

In this offseason report, Phuoc Nguyen takes a look at the path of Thorns goalkeeper Shelby Hogan — who went from undrafted, to an WICC hero, to starting the biggest game of Portland’s season last month.

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From Providence College to Providence Park

Shelby Hogan was brilliant in college for the Providence Friars. She was in elite tier of keepers throughout her time there. Her list of accomplishments there would easily make her a legend. In each season, she had more saves each year. 

“Yeah, I loved my time at Providence” said Hogan. “It was an amazing, four and a half years. I feel like it really prepared me for this level and the coaching staff is there is great. There was a great culture in place, which I think really, helped translate into the great culture we have here. There's a lot of good competition. I think I was challenged. All the games I played there, which I think was huge in my development. Providence is a huge home for me.”

Hogan’s legacy at Providence College made a lasting impression. 

“Shelby is an extraordinarily talented goalkeeper with a selfless, caring and passionate attitude,” said Providence College Head Coach Sam Lopes. “She is more than deserving of this special moment in her life and I wish her tremendous success and happiness going forward. She is one of the most decorated players in program history and I am excited to follow her professional career. Congrats Shelby. We all are beyond proud of you!”

Opportunity Finally Calls!

The opportunity to start a game in the NWSL is an absolute privilege for a goalkeeper. Every player wants the chance to shine and show their talent.

After somehow going undrafted, Portland offered her a contract and a chance to continue her dreams of playing professional soccer.

Shelby Hogan on what it was like to receive the call, offer, and contract:

“Yeah, that was a complete dream come true. Like, it’s always been a huge dream of mine to play professional soccer was really like the only job I wanted to have after school. So to sign that paperwork, and for it to become official, it was like, it hardly felt real. I was with my family. So they were definitely the first people I told them, they were just as excited if not more than me, because I think they knew like how big of a deal it was to me.”

In a league where only 12 goalkeepers have starting jobs, it is extremely difficult to be one of them. However, there are always opportunities to shine during a season. 

When you get a chance, you have to take it and make an immediate impact.

Shine Bright Like a Diamond!