SANFORD, Fla. – Emily Sams didn’t expect to win a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
And yet, the Orlando Pride defender held it up with glee upon returning to the squad after weeks in Paris.
“It was an amazing experience and an amazing last six weeks,” Sams said at her first press conference back with the team. “I feel like I’m just so grateful for the opportunity, and it wasn’t expected. Just had to wrap my mind around it at the beginning.”
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In her second year as a pro after playing at Florida State, Sams earned her first call-up to the U.S. Women’s National Team as a member of the practice team for training camp. After some team injuries, she was named an alternate and traveled to Paris and eventually named to the 18-player active roster.
“It still doesn’t feel real, honestly,” Sams said. “The fact that I didn’t know that that could happen and then just to get called in so quickly. Then I’m on the plane to France and I’m like, ‘Wow, this is actually happening.’ I’m just so grateful.”
Sams isn’t the only player coming back with a medal. Fellow teammates forward Marta, defender Rafaelle, forward Adriana and midfielder Angelina also won silver medals with the Brazil Women’s National Team. USA defeated Brazil 1-0 in the gold medal match.
“It’s a great credit to the club and the direction that we’re going in,” Pride Head Coach Seb Hines said. “For those players that can walk away with a medal, it’s incredible. They should be very proud of what they have achieved.”
The Orlando Pride look to keep its top form in the NWSL, still being undefeated and in first place in the standings. The first game back is on the road against the Houston Dash on Friday, Aug. 19.