What is the Kang Institute and its goal for women's soccer?

The Kang Institute, funded by a $30 million donation, aims to research and address disparities in women's soccer, focusing on female physiology and athlete well-being.

Why is research on female soccer players so important?

Research is crucial to understand higher injury rates like ACL tears, menstrual health impacts, and mental health challenges unique to female athletes.

How will the Kang Institute's donation impact women's soccer globally?

The donation will fund research and best practices, with plans to expand initiatives globally to make soccer more accessible and equitable.

Home / Sports / US Soccer Invests $30M for Women's Health Research

US Soccer Invests $30M for Women's Health Research

13 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Michele Kang donates $30 million to U.S. Soccer for athlete research.
The Kang Institute will study injury prevention and mental health.
Research aims to address physiological differences in female athletes.

US Soccer Invests $30M for Women's Health Research

U.S. Soccer has launched the Kang Institute, backed by a significant $30 million donation from Michele Kang, to address long-standing disparities in women's sports. The initiative aims to counter the historical lack of research tailored to female physiology, which has led to increased injury risks and barriers for young girls entering sports.

The institute's work will encompass dedicated research, development of best practices, and comprehensive education from youth levels to elite national teams. Early discussions are already underway to extend these efforts globally, particularly in anticipation of the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil and the 2031 tournament hosted by the U.S.

Initial research will prioritize injury prevention, mental health, workload management, menstrual health, and the transition to elite competition. Understanding the unique physiological needs of female athletes, such as higher ACL tear rates and the impact of pregnancy, is central to the institute's mission to empower women in sports.