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Michelle Maemone Relishing Rookie Campaign for Utah Royals FC

A big part of Utah Royals FC's 3-1-0 start to the 2019 season had nearly given up on her dream of playing professional soccer just four months ago.

"I didn't think I was going to be playing soccer anymore," said Royals FC left back Michelle Maemone. "I went home during Christmas break and bought a bunch of work clothes. I had interviews lined up for jobs. I had an internship."

Fate or Utah Royals FC head coach Laura Harvey, intervened, selecting Maemone with the 23rd pick in the National Women's Soccer League draft on January 10.

"I was watching [the draft] on my phone between classes," said Maemone.