Casey Phair: Finding Identity in Soccer and Beyond

Casey Phair is a professional soccer player for Angel City FC and the South Korean Women’s National Team. Although currently a forward, she grew up playing various positions, including defense and midfield. On July 25, 2023, Casey became the youngest player to feature in a FIFA Women’s World Cup at 16 years and 26 days old. She was also the first multiracial footballer called up to the South Korean national team. In January of this year, Casey signed with Angel City FC, becoming the team’s youngest ever signing. She is also one of the youngest guests on this podcast! Casey was born in Korea to an American father and a South Korean mother but grew up in the United States. As a child, she moved frequently before eventually settling in New Jersey. Soccer played a significant role in her life, but education was also important as she aspired to become a chemical engineer. Due to her busy schedule balancing soccer and academics, Casey takes online classes to pursue her education. Competing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup was an incredible experience for her, although the training camps were challenging compared to what she was used to. Despite these difficulties, Casey played in all three games for South Korea. After the World Cup, she went on trial with multiple soccer clubs, including Angel City FC. Casey chose Angel City FC for its culture and environment, both within the team and the city. Despite the numerous changes in her life this past year, she is proud of her growth and remains motivated to be the best on and off the field. In this episode, you will hear: As someone who is South Korean, does Casey like curry? How would Casey describe the difference between her as a soccer player and her outside of the sport? What Casey liked the most about soccer, and what made her want to do this as a career? Did Casey have support from others when pursuing a career in professional soccer? Casey's advice for female athletes from Asia who want to pursue professional sports but are unable to because of gender roles. Challenges Casey had when competing at a FIFA World Cup. Casey on the importance of culture and environment in a professional soccer team. If Casey had moments where she was impressed with herself. If you want to follow the “Oh My Curry Goodness” podcast, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also follow the podcast on YouTube as well. Be sure to also follow the podcast on instagram @theomcgpodcast for more information on guests, preview clips, and more! If you want to follow Casey Phair be sure to follow her on Instagram @caseyphair_ as well as Angel City FC @weareangelcity! Please note: There was a discussion about Casey's interest in becoming the oldest woman to compete at a World Cup. I mentioned that the previous record for the oldest player at a FIFA Women’s World Cup was 40 years old, but this record was surpassed by Formiga of Brazil, who was 41 years and 112 days old during the 2019 tournament.