Kickin’ It – AYSO Girl Power – History of Women’s Soccer

In Celebration of Women’s History Month, the Torrance Historical Society is hosting an event entitled: Kickin’ It – AYSO Girl Power – History of Women’s Soccer, on Sunday, March 19^th, at 2:00 PM at the Torrance Historical Society & Museum. Jan Smisek, who was on the first all-girl AYSO team, on the first Varsity Team at West High School, started club soccer at UCSB, and spearheaded the growth of Women’s Soccer in the USA, and more, is the guest speaker.

Born-and-raised in Torrance, Smisek grew-up in West Torrance where AYSO was founded in 1964 – starting with only nine (all boy) teams lead by a handful of soccer enthusiasts who wanted American kids to have the opportunity to learn, and love, the game of soccer.  However, it wasn’t until 1971, that a girls’ team was finally formed.

Smisek, who now lives in Washington, was named as one of the Top 50 Soccer Citizens by Washington Youth Soccer as part of their 50^th Anniversary Celebration in 2016.  She was also named a “Soccer Legend” by the Reign FC, (now known as OLReign) an American professional women’s soccer team based in Seattle, Washington, in 2019.

This event is free and open to the public.  All are invited to come celebrate Women’s History Month.  Seating for this event will be first-come/first-served.

In the tradition of AYSO, wedged orange slices will be served.  For additional info, please contact the Museum at 310.328.5392 or visit www.TorranceHistoricalSociety.org