Kaylyn Kyle: From Olympic Bronze to MLS Broadcasting
Kaylyn McKenzie Kyle is a distinguished figure in Canadian sports, having transitioned from a high-impact career as a professional soccer player to a prominent role in sports media. Known for her versatility on the pitch and her sharp analysis off it, Kyle has left an indelible mark on the women's game in North America and beyond.
Key Facts
- Olympic Success: Won a bronze medal with Team Canada at the 2012 London Olympics.
- International Milestone: Earned 101 caps for the Canada senior national team.
- Versatility: Played as both a midfielder and a center back during her professional club career.
- Media Career: Currently a broadcaster for MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, hosting MLS 360.
- Youth Excellence: Named Saskatchewan Soccer Association Youth Female Player of the Year from 2004 to 2006.
Early Life and Academic Foundation
Born on October 6, 1988, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Kaylyn Kyle grew up in an athletic household. Her father, Doug, was a professional hockey player, and her mother, Pat, was a competitive volleyball player. This environment fostered her early success at Bishop Mahoney High School, where she led her team to both city and provincial titles.
In 2006, Kyle attended the University of Saskatchewan, competing in Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) soccer. In just one year, she made 14 appearances, recording three goals and three assists. Her rapid ascent in the sport led to an invitation to join the Canada national team and a professional contract offer from Sweden shortly after her university debut.
Professional Club Career
Kyle's club journey was characterized by longevity and adaptability across several leagues.
The Vancouver Whitecaps and European Experience
Between 2006 and 2012, Kyle spent six seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps. She was a key contributor during the playoffs, notably scoring the game-winning goal against Seattle to help the team secure third place in 2011. In 2009, she expanded her horizons by playing in the Damallsvenskan, Sweden's top-flight women's league, with Piteå IF, where she appeared in 13 matches and scored one goal.
The NWSL Era
With the launch of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), Kyle joined Seattle Reign FC in 2013 via the Player Allocation process. While she began as a midfielder, she transitioned to center back, becoming a defensive anchor and the team's leading scorer that season with three goals—all of which were penalty kicks.
Following her time in Seattle, Kyle moved through several high-profile NWSL clubs. She was traded to the Boston Breakers in late 2013 and subsequently to the Houston Dash in April 2014. She later played 12 games for the Portland Thorns in 2015 before joining the Orlando Pride, where she made 17 appearances before her release in 2017.
International Career and Achievements
Kyle's international journey began with the Canada U-17 and U-20 teams, including two appearances at the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup (2006 and 2008). She earned her first senior cap in 2008 in a match against the United States.
Her international career is highlighted by two major achievements: winning gold at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara and securing a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics. Kyle was a vital part of the midfield during the Olympic tournament, culminating in a 1–0 victory over France in the bronze medal match.
She reached the prestigious milestone of 100 international caps during the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in a round of 16 match against Switzerland. Kyle officially retired from international competition on April 21, 2017.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Midfielder / Defender |
| Senior International Caps | 101 |
| International Goals | 6 |
| Olympic Medal | Bronze (2012) |
| Pan American Medal | Gold (2011) |
| Current Role | MLS Broadcaster (Apple TV) |
Transition to Broadcasting and Philanthropy
After retiring from the pitch, Kyle transitioned into sports media. She began broadcasting with TSN in 2017 and has since worked as an analyst for beIN Sports. In 2020, she served as the sideline reporter for Inter Miami CF. Currently, she is a key part of the Apple TV MLS Season Pass team, where she hosts MLS 360.
Beyond the screen, Kyle is a Right To Play ambassador and a brand ambassador for Can-i Wellness oral spray supplements. In her personal life, she married Harrison Heath in 2017, and they have a son, Hayden Jack Heath, born in June 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Kaylyn Kyle's primary position during her career?
Kyle primarily played as a midfielder, though she successfully transitioned to a center back role during her time with Seattle Reign FC in the NWSL.
How many international caps did Kaylyn Kyle earn for Canada?
She earned a total of 101 caps for the Canadian senior national team, reaching the century mark during the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Which major medals did she win with the national team?
She won a gold medal at the 2011 Pan American Games and a bronze medal at the 2012 London Summer Olympics.
What is Kaylyn Kyle doing now?
She is currently a professional soccer broadcaster for MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, where she hosts the show MLS 360.
Which NWSL teams did Kaylyn Kyle play for?
Kyle played for Seattle Reign FC, the Boston Breakers, Houston Dash, Portland Thorns FC, and the Orlando Pride.