The National Women’s Soccer League has become the proving ground for some of the world’s most talented footballers, where careers are built on consistency, resilience, and hard work. For many, just stepping onto an NWSL pitch is a dream realized. For others, like Utah Royals defender Kate Del Fava, it’s about staying there, week in and week out, until those appearances add up to something truly remarkable.
This month, Del Fava didn’t just reach a personal milestone — she made history. With her 49th consecutive start in Royals colors, the 27-year-old defender not only set a new club record for consecutive starts, surpassing the previous mark of 48 held by Icelandic midfielder Gunnhildur Jónsdóttir, but also became the all-time leader in games played for the Royals with 49 total appearances. No other player in club history has taken the field more times or with more consistency.
Kate’s Journey Through the League
Born in Evanston, Illinois, Del Fava starred at Illinois State University, where she was named 2019 MVC Player of the Year and a three-time All-MVC First Team selection. Her strong college career led to her being drafted 12th overall by the Utah Royals in the 2020 NWSL Draft.
But for Del Fava, the moment was as surprising as it was life-changing.
“Honestly, I didn’t think it was going to happen. I was planning on vet school. I just threw my name in, made a little highlight tape, and thought, ‘Why not?’”
She hadn’t spoken with any teams beforehand and assumed draft day would come and go without her name being called.
“I was literally watching on TV. They didn’t even call me before. I found out at the same time as everyone else, and it was kind of a crazy, fun experience.”
She made her professional debut in the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup, appearing in six matches before the club’s relocation.
When Utah’s franchise moved to Kansas City, Del Fava made the transition as well. It was there, during the 2022 playoffs, that she wrote her name into league history — scoring a dramatic overtime winner against the Houston Dash, the latest goal ever recorded in an NWSL postseason match.
“That goal was really special for me,” Del Fava said at the time. “It showed all the work I’d put in was worth it and gave me so much confidence going forward.”
But eventually, fate brought her full circle.
After three years in Kansas City, Del Fava returned to Utah in late 2023 when the Royals were relaunched. In the club’s inaugural season back in the league, she didn’t just play regularly — she played every single minute, earning “Iron Woman” recognition and being named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year.
A Record of Consistency
Now, just two seasons into Utah’s return, Del Fava has etched her name firmly at the top of the record books. Her 49 consecutive starts stand as the most in club history, while her 49 total appearances also mark the most games played by any player in Royals history. In one sweep, she has become both the club’s iron standard for reliability and its all-time appearance leader.
For Del Fava, the achievement is more than numbers on a page — it represents years of preparation, durability, and trust from her coaches and teammates.
“Expectation is a privilege. Pressure is a privilege. I want to be that mainstay for this team, someone younger players and internationals can look up to.”
“You show up every weekend and just hope to be part of the matchday squad. To have been there 49 games in a row is a testament to staying healthy, being a good professional, and leaning on my teammates and coaches who make it possible.”
Her steady presence on the back line has provided Utah with continuity in a league where rosters shift constantly and competition for spots is relentless. Whether it’s a crucial clearance, a late-game goal — like her memorable header against Bay FC in 2024 — or simply her example in training, Del Fava’s reliability is what makes her indispensable.
A Leader On and Off the Field
Del Fava’s impact extends beyond the pitch. In 2025 she was nominated for the Lauren Holiday Impact Award, recognizing her commitment to the community and to inspiring the next generation of players.
“Community is everything. I want soccer to be accessible to all kids in Utah — to give them the chance to come see us play and maybe dream of doing what we do one day. That makes it all worth it.”
Her teammates and coaches frequently describe her as the backbone of the Royals’ defensive unit, someone who embodies professionalism and inspires confidence.
“The Utah Royals gave me my shot,” Del Fava said. “I owe my entire career to this place. Every time I step onto the pitch at America First Field, I just want people to know I’m proud to wear this badge and represent this club.”
Looking Ahead
At 27, Del Fava has already carved out a career defined by perseverance, leadership, and now, a place in Royals history. While setting the record for consecutive starts is a landmark achievement, she views it as just the beginning.
“I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far, but I know there’s more ahead — more games to play, more challenges to face, and hopefully more ways to make an impact for this team and this community. We have everything in place to be contenders. I believe we can be one of the best clubs in the league if we keep putting in the work.”
For the Utah Royals, Kate Del Fava is more than their new record holder. She’s the standard-bearer for a club determined to build its identity on consistency, resilience, and pride.
And for Del Fava, the road to 49 consecutive starts is proof that reliability and determination can build a legacy that lasts far beyond the final whistle.
