Houston Dash winger and Jamaica international Kalyssa ‘Kiki’ Van Zanten has embraced her current setback with resilience and determination, as she faces the prospect of being sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a left foot injury sustained during a recent match against the Washington Spirit.
The 22-year-old athlete, who shared the news of her injury on social media, expressed her devastation but also her unwavering resolve to bounce back stronger. She captioned her post with a message of determination, stating her confidence in overcoming this challenge.
“Absolutely devastated that my rookie season has been put on hold. I’ll come back better and stronger,” Van Zanten wrote alongside an X-ray image of her injury.
Van Zanten, drafted by Houston Dash in the 2024 NWSL Draft, had showcased her talent in four games prior to her injury, earning her first start on March 30 in a match against Bay FC. Her journey to the professional ranks included a successful collegiate career at the University of Notre Dame, where she made significant contributions with 27 goals in 95 appearances.
Scoring a memorable goal against Costa Rica
Internationally, Van Zanten made her mark with the Reggae Girlz, debuting during the CONCACAF Women’s World Cup qualifiers in 2022 and scoring a memorable goal against Costa Rica in the CONCACAF Women’s Championships. She was also part of the historic Jamaican team that achieved a Round of 16 finish at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Known for her speed and skill on the field, Van Zanten has garnered support from teammates, coaches, and fans as she embarks on her journey to recovery. Their encouragement serves as a source of strength for her during this challenging period.
“Thank you to my team, family and friends for all the support,” Van Zanten expressed her gratitude for the unwavering backing she has received.
As she navigates the road to recovery, Van Zanten remains focused on her goal of returning to the pitch stronger than ever, ready to continue making an impact both domestically and internationally.
