Kalyssa “Kiki” Van Zanten
Born: August 25, 2001
Nationality: Jamaican-American
Position: Forward / Midfielder
Club: Houston Dash (NWSL)
National Team: Jamaica

Overview

Kalyssa “Kiki” Van Zanten is a professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for the Houston Dash in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Born in the United States, she represents Jamaica at the international level. She previously played college soccer for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Early Life

Van Zanten was born in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, to a Jamaican mother and an American father of Dutch descent. Her father played college football at Illinois Wesleyan, and both of her sisters, Brianna and Mimi, have played collegiate soccer at Case Western Reserve and Florida State, respectively.

Club Career

Van Zanten was drafted 21st overall by the Houston Dash in the 2024 NWSL Draft. She signed a one-year contract with a one-year option in March 2024. She made her professional debut with Houston Dash later that season.

International Career

Van Zanten began her international career representing the United States at the U-15 and U-17 levels, scoring nine goals in total for the youth squads. In 2022, she made her senior debut for Jamaica in a 4–0 CONCACAF Women’s World Cup Qualifiers win against Bermuda.

She was named to the 2022 CONCACAF W Championship squad and played a key role in Jamaica’s campaign. On July 18, 2022, she scored the winning goal against Costa Rica, securing third place for Jamaica in the tournament.

Honors & Achievements

• United States U-15
  • CONCACAF Girls’ U-15 Championship: 2016
• Jamaica
  • CONCACAF Women’s Championship Third Place: 2022

Career Statistics

Club Appearances and Goals (as of April 14, 2024)

• Notre Dame Fighting Irish: 95 appearances, 27 goals
• Houston Dash: 4 appearances, 0 goals

International Goals

• Scored the winning goal in Jamaica’s 1–0 victory over Costa Rica in extra time at the 2022 CONCACAF W Championship.

Van Zanten continues to make an impact at the club and international levels, showcasing her versatility and goal-scoring ability.