Michelle Hudson’s soccer journey began as an Arizona youth player and grew through years of volunteering, team management, club registration, and eventually a role with the Arizona Soccer Association supporting others in those same positions. She values the soccer community for the lifelong friendships it creates and for the opportunity to help young players get on the field, learn important life lessons, and build future opportunities. Inspired by her parents’ dedication to Arizona soccer, Michelle hopes to encourage more women and girls to participate and dreams of creating opportunities where finances never prevent a girl from playing. Some of her favorite soccer memories include attending the 1999 Women’s World Cup Final, playing women’s soccer alongside multiple generations of her family, and collecting memorabilia from the 1999 World Cup.
1. Can you share your journey into your current role?
My journey in soccer began as an Arizona Youth Soccer Association player in the late 70s & 80s. My parents were VERY involved and therefore soccer was truly a family affair. I would serve my volunteer hours assisting with registration for our local club and do side jobs lining fields (with CHALK!) and putting up nets among some of my tasks.
When my own children began playing, my parents were still involved and it felt natural to follow their example. I started as team treasurer and team manager while my father coached my son and I enjoyed assisting with our club events. After several years in those roles, I became the registrar of my children’s club.
After nine years in the registrar role, my children aged out and I thought my soccer journey had come to an end. But soccer was not finished with me yet. Not long after, I received a call from my friends at Arizona Youth Soccer Association, Leslie Johnson & Chris Webb. That call opened the door to a new soccer chapter in my life and I joined this amazing family! Now I have the opportunity to assist others in the same roles as which I had served!
2. What does being a part of the soccer community mean to you.
I feel grateful knowing that I’ve played a small part in getting these kids on the field! There are so many life lessons in the team experience. Whether it is helping a player get registered, supporting my team, club & state or simply being there when needed, my hope is that I have in some small way helped these kids create future opportunities for themselves.
I am also thankful for the lifelong friendships that I have made throughout this journey.
3.What’s a soccer event you would love to host if resources weren’t a barrier?
I have always wanted to host a “support group” event for team managers and club registrars. I have experienced the trials and tribulations of both roles. Being able to collaborate, commiserate, vent and drink some wine together would be sooooo therapeutic!
4.Who has been a role model or mentor for you in this space?
My mom and dad have been my role models and mentors. Might seem cliche to say but they truly both dedicated so much of themselves to their team, club and the Arizona soccer community. More importantly, they gave their time and energy to the players and families they met along the way. They taught me how important the behind the scene contributions can be.
5.How do you inspire others especially young women and girls to get involved in soccer?
I played women’s soccer in the AWSL into my late 40’s. I was never a good player. But I always tried and apparently was okay embarrassing myself on the field in the name of fun! Our team consisted of all ages and talent levels including my mother, my sister, and many women in their 70’s & 80’s. Eventually my oldest daughter joined in the fun too! I know as the younger generation cheered us on, there was some inspiration (and laughs!) – if we could do it, they could too!
6.An angel investor has offered you $1m to grow the game of women’s soccer, how would you invest this money?
I would create a club where financial circumstances would not determine a girl’s opportunity to play. My “goal” would be to offer reduced fees or when needed, no fees at all so that more girls could experience the game and the benefits of being a part of a team.
7. You have two tickets to the 2027 Women’s World Cup. Who would you bring with you and why?
I would give both tickets to my mom and dad (even though my dad is now too frail to attend). Their passion for women’s soccer is infectious! And they invited my daughter and I to attend the 1999 Women’s World Cup with them. 🙂
8.What’s the best soccer experience you have had?
The 1999 Women’s World Cup finals – U.S vs. China!! Best game ever to be in attendance in person!
9.What’s your go‑to snack or drink during long tournament weekends?
Water, Liquid IV, string cheese & popcorn.
10.Favorite motivational quote or mantra?
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”
11.Best book, movie, or TV show about soccer you’ve ever seen?
OF COURSE – Ted Lasso!!
12.What’s your favorite piece of soccer gear or memorabilia you own?
Autographs and gear from the 1999 Women’s World Cup