Deyna
Castellanos
Venezuela
·
Soccer
Date of birth | 18 April 1999 |
|---|---|
Age | 26 |
Nationality | Venezuela |
Disciplines | Soccer (standard) |
Venezuelan trailblazer 'Queen Deyna' Castellanos always knew football would be her key to unlocking the world.
Growing up in Maracay, Deyna joined her mother at her brother's football practices. Soon, with her mom's encouragement, she began training alongside the boys and demonstrated a natural talent for the sport. The support and encouragement from her mother – whom Deyna calls "her biggest inspiration" – helped shape her future.
At a young age, Deyna recognized how football and education could transform her life. When she was just 16, she made the bold move to the United States, joining Florida State University's football team, which she chose for its strong football program and pathway to a professional career.
At FSU, Castellanos won the 2018 NCAA National Championship and became a two-time NCAA All-American. Her exceptional talent earned her a historic nomination for FIFA's Best Women's Player award – the youngest nominee ever.
Her professional career has taken her from Spain to England and now to the Portland Thorns. Before matches, she carefully prepares with music to help her focus.
Off the field, Deyna enjoys family time and watching movies, especially her favourite show, Friends. She's also become President of La Chamas FC in the Queen's League North America, starting her journey as an entrepreneur.
Deyna's proudest achievement may be her Queen Deyna Program, which has empowered over 50 female players worldwide with scholarships and support. By March 2025, the program had awarded 43 scholarships to student-athletes from Venezuela, Colombia, Nigeria and many other countries.
For Queen Deyna, this is just the beginning of her impact on football as she looks to empower more women and girls in the sport.