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Lorrie Fair Allen's path to becoming a renowned athlete and influential sports diplomat is a story of commitment, cultural heritage, and an unyielding passion for soccer. Raised in Los Altos, California, Fair Allen and her twin sister, Ronnie, were born into a diverse family. Their mother, a Shanghai native who grew up in Hong Kong before moving to the United States, and their Caucasian father, instilled in them a rich blend of cultural heritage and a strong work ethic that would shape their lives both on and off the field.
“I’ve been approached by some people who were like, ‘I didn’t know that people played soccer that looked like me,’ and that really brought to light how important it was to have representation,” said Fair Allen. “I think I’m more stepping into that now and owning that. It makes me really proud to be half-Asian.”
Fair Allen’s soccer career is nothing short of illustrious. As a member of the U.S. Women's National Team, she amassed 120 caps between 1996 and 2005. Her tenure with the USWNT was marked by significant achievements, including being part of the squad that won the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup -- a defining moment in the history of women’s soccer in the United States. Additionally, she earned a silver medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, showcasing her prowess on the international stage.
Fair Allen’s club career spanning continents and premier leagues was equally impressive. She played in the United States, France, and England, adapting to different playing styles and contributing to the global growth of women’s soccer. Her versatility and dedication on the field made her a valuable asset to every team she joined.
Fair Allen’s twin sister, Ronnie Fair, also left her mark on the sport, playing alongside each other on the national team in 1997. The Fair sisters became role models for many young athletes and were the first sister duo to take the field for USWNT.
Fair Allen’s college career was equally distinguished. She was a three-time NCAA Champion at the University of North Carolina, one of the most storied programs in college soccer. Her time at UNC honed her skills and laid the foundation for her professional career and future endeavors.
Outside of her athletic accomplishments, Fair Allen has made substantial contributions beyond the field. Since 2008, she has served as a sports envoy for the U.S. State Department. In this capacity, she leverages soccer as a medium to engage with individuals from diverse cultures, fostering mutual understanding and advancing diplomatic missions abroad. Her role as an envoy underscores her belief in the power of sports to bridge cultural and national gaps, cultivating a global community united by a shared love for the game.
As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Fair Allen’s legacy serves as an inspiration, highlighting the importance of embracing one’s heritage while striving for excellence and making a positive impact on the world. Her achievements on the field and her contributions as a sports diplomat continue to inspire future generations of athletes and global citizens alike.
“You don’t go into it thinking you’re a trailblazer, but you can go into it looking at the bigger picture, said Fair Allen. “Start asking yourself who else am I not supporting or who can I be supporting from an underrepresented background that is not my own. That is the path to a more equitable landscape in terms of sports because everyone deserves a place to play.”
