What Is the Average Height for a Female Soccer Player?

Why Height Matters in Soccer: Is It a Game Changer?

You’ve probably noticed it before. Some soccer players seem to tower over others, while others are shorter but play with incredible speed and agility. So, does height really matter in soccer, especially for women? Well, it depends. I had a conversation just the other day with a friend who’s an avid soccer fan. She asked me, “Do tall players have an advantage?” And honestly, I was a bit torn. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.

Sure, height can be an asset, especially for positions like goalkeeper or center-back. But, what about midfielders or forwards? Is it really all about height? Let’s dig into it and see what the average height of a female soccer player is, and why it varies so much.

The Average Height of a Female Soccer Player: The Numbers Game

So, let’s get to the stats. The average height for a female soccer player is typically around 5'4" to 5'7" (163 cm to 170 cm). I know, I know, that’s a bit of a range, but stick with me here—height isn’t everything in this game.

It’s interesting to note that the average height varies based on the country and the level of competition. For example, in the United States, female soccer players might be a little taller on average, whereas in countries like Japan, the players tend to be on the shorter side.

I’ve even seen some players (at least in my local league) who are much shorter but play with such agility and finesse that height doesn’t seem to matter. Still, when you look at the international scene, especially in women’s professional leagues like the NWSL or UEFA Women’s Champions League, taller players often have an edge in terms of physicality.

Height by Position: How Does It Affect the Role You Play?

Okay, now, let’s be real. Height plays a different role depending on where you’re positioned on the field. For instance, if you’re a goalkeeper, having some extra inches can make a difference. Being taller helps you cover more of the goal and increases your reach, which can be a game-changer when you're dealing with high balls or close-range shots. A keeper like Hope Solo, who stood at 5'9", had a noticeable advantage in this respect.

On the other hand, if you’re playing as a forward or midfielder, it’s not as much about height. Speed, agility, and technical skills can outweigh the need for height. I was talking to a teammate last week who’s only 5'3" but can dribble circles around taller defenders. Her low center of gravity and quickness make her one of the best players on the field.

It’s not all about being tall—it’s about how you use the body you have.

Height vs. Skill: What’s More Important for a Female Soccer Player?

You might be wondering, “Is height really necessary to succeed in soccer?” Well, from my experience, the answer is both yes and no. Sure, tall players might have an advantage in some situations, but skill is king. Just look at players like Megan Rapinoe (5'7") or Marta (5'4"). They’ve both excelled at the highest levels of the sport, and they’re not exactly towering over their opponents.

One of the most exciting aspects of soccer is that it’s such a dynamic sport. A shorter player might have the advantage in tight spaces, weaving in and out of defenders with ease. A taller player might be able to win more headers or challenge for aerial duels.

I remember watching a game last year where a 5'2" midfielder totally dominated the match, controlling the tempo and making some mind-blowing passes. It was a reminder that height, in the end, is just one factor among many.

Why Do Soccer Players Come in All Shapes and Sizes?

Let’s face it—soccer is a game for all body types. Whether you’re tall, short, muscular, or lean, there’s a role for you. But why do we see such a range of heights among female soccer players?

Well, soccer is a very diverse sport. Different leagues and teams emphasize different attributes. For example, some teams might prioritize speed and agility (where shorter players may excel), while others value physicality and aerial duels (where taller players have an edge). I’ve noticed this shift in preferences during my years of watching both men’s and women’s games. Teams like FC Barcelona’s women’s team, for instance, focus heavily on technique and possession, which has led to them recruiting players of various heights who fit their tactical style.

Additionally, genetics play a huge role in an athlete’s height. It’s not something that can be trained, so a team will often have a mix of players to complement each other’s strengths.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Height, Whatever It Is

So, what did we learn? The average height of a female soccer player might hover between 5'4" and 5'7", but that’s really just a baseline. Height can certainly play a role depending on your position, but it’s not a dealbreaker. Whether you’re tall or short, the most important thing is your skill, your passion, and your love for the game.

I’ll be honest: at one point, I thought being a few inches taller might make me a better player. But after seeing how much speed and finesse matter, I realized height doesn’t define your ability. It’s all about what you bring to the field.

Now, after reading this, maybe you’ll look at players a little differently—whether you’re 5'0" or 6'0", it’s your talent and drive that really count.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.