Did Sophie Cunningham Play Football in High School?

By Sarah Miller · November 30, 2030

Yes, Sophie Cunningham did play football in high school. While she is best known for her standout basketball career at Missouri and in the WNBA with the Phoenix Mercury, Cunningham also played as a kicker for the varsity football team at Incarnate Word Academy in St. Louis, Missouri. Her participation in high school football highlights her athleticism and versatility across sports.

Who Is Sophie Cunningham?

Sophie Cunningham is a professional basketball player currently competing in the WNBA for the Phoenix Mercury. Born on July 23, 1996, in St. Louis, Missouri, she gained national recognition during her collegiate career at the University of Missouri, where she became one of the most decorated players in program history.

Basketball Achievements

Two-time All-American (2018, 2019)
SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2019)
First-team All-SEC (2019)
Finished her college career ranked top-5 in Mizzou history in points, rebounds, and steals

Sophie Cunningham's High School Sports Career

Cunningham attended Incarnate Word Academy, a private Catholic high school in St. Louis. While primarily recognized for her dominance on the basketball court, she expanded her athletic profile by joining the school’s football team.

Football Participation Details

Position: Placekicker
Team: Incarnate Word Academy football team (co-ed at the time)
Years Active: Late 2010s (approximately 2013–2014 season)
Motivation: Personal challenge and passion for competition

Her role as a kicker was widely covered in local media and later highlighted in national interviews, showcasing her rare crossover between women’s basketball and high school football—a testament to her skill and confidence.

Why It Matters: Breaking Gender Barriers in Sports

Sophie Cunningham’s decision to play football challenges traditional gender norms in athletics. Female athletes participating in what are typically male-dominated sports remain uncommon, especially at the high school level.

Impact and Significance

Demonstrates athletic versatility and fearlessness
Encourages inclusivity in high school sports programs
Serves as inspiration for young girls interested in non-traditional sports roles
Highlights gaps in opportunities for female athletes in certain sports

Athlete	High School	Sport(s) Played	Position	Notable Achievement
Sophie Cunningham	Incarnate Word Academy (MO)	Basketball, Football	Kicker / Guard	WNBA Draft Pick (2019, #13 overall)
Tonia Harris	Booker T. Washington (FL)	Football, Track	Linebacker	First woman to score in a Florida high school game (1997)
Jennifer Welter	John Carroll High School (PA)	Football, Lacrosse	Running Back	First woman to play running back in men’s pro football (2014)

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The table illustrates how female athletes like Sophie Cunningham have broken barriers by participating in traditionally male sports. Their presence not only diversifies team dynamics but also redefines perceptions of capability and inclusion in youth athletics. These cases underscore growing momentum toward equal opportunity in high school sports.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sophie Cunningham and High School Football

Did Sophie Cunningham actually play on a boys' football team in high school?

Yes, Sophie Cunningham played as a kicker on the varsity football team at Incarnate Word Academy, which was co-ed at the time. She participated in official games against other schools, making her one of the few female athletes to do so in Missouri.

What position did Sophie Cunningham play in football?

Sophie Cunningham served as a placekicker for her high school football team. She handled field goals and extra points during games, using her strong leg and precision under pressure.

Has Sophie Cunningham spoken publicly about playing football?

Yes, she has discussed her football experience in multiple interviews, including with Sports Illustrated and local St. Louis media. She described it as a fun challenge and a way to stay competitive during the offseason.

Is it common for girls to play high school football in the U.S.?

No, it is relatively rare. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), fewer than 1,000 girls nationwide participate in tackle football annually, mostly as kickers or placeholders. However, interest is growing, especially in states like California, Texas, and Florida.

How did playing football help Sophie Cunningham’s basketball career?

While football didn’t directly improve her basketball skills, it enhanced her lower-body strength, mental toughness, and ability to perform under pressure—qualities that translated well to high-level basketball competition.