From Surf Soccer to the World Stage: Catarina Macario Returns Home to San Diego
San Diego, CA, March 30th 2026 – San Diego Surf Soccer Club proudly celebrates a moment years in the making, the return of one of its brightest stars, Catarina “Cat” Macario, to San Diego as she joins San Diego Wave FC.
More than a record-breaking historic transfer from Chelsea FC to the NWSL, this is a full-circle story of Cat’s courage in her childhood, resilience as a top athlete, and growth into her professional career. From her rise chasing a dream to becoming a global soccer icon, Macario’s journey embodies what is possible when talent meets opportunity.
A starting forward for the U.S. Women’s National Team and recently announced Nike athlete, Macario stands as one of the most accomplished alumni from Surf Soccer, and now she returns to the very community where it all began.
At just 12 years old, Macario first stepped onto the fields of San Diego Surf. After moving from São Luís, Brazil to San Diego, she not only learned a new language, she found her voice through the game. At Surf Sports Park, she honed her craft, competed against the nation’s best, and developed the fearless mindset that has defined her career.
Those early years were more than development, and the results were undeniable. Macario still holds the ECNL’s all-time scoring record with an extraordinary 165 goals, a testament to her relentless drive and generational talent.
Her journey continued at Stanford University, where she became one of the most decorated players in NCAA history, leading her team to national championships in 2017 and 2019 and earning back-to-back MAC Hermann Trophies as the nation’s top player.
On the global stage, Macario’s excellence only grew. From winning the 2021 UEFA Women’s Champions League with Lyon to capturing domestic titles with Chelsea, including the Women’s Super League, FA Cup, and League Cup, she has consistently performed at the highest level of the sport.
And now, she comes home.
“Cat Macario’s return to San Diego is incredibly meaningful for our entire Surf community,” said Josh Henderson, Director of San Diego Surf Soccer Club. “She represents everything we believe in, the pursuit of excellence, resilience through adversity, and the courage to dream big. Watching her journey come full circle, back to where it all started, is something truly special.”
For all Surf Soccer players nationwide, Cat’s journey brings inspiration on all levels. From playing at Surf Sports Park to going pro, Macario embodies the pathway and opportunities that San Diego Surf strives to give every player, supporting them with access and tools to become the best at the sport they love.
San Diego Surf proudly welcomes Catarina Macario home and looks forward to cheering her on as she inspires the next generation, this time on the professional stage in her hometown.
About San Diego Surf Soccer Club
For over 49 years, San Diego Surf Soccer Club has been a pioneer in youth soccer development, producing players who compete at the highest levels, from national teams and top collegiate programs to professional leagues around the world. Driven by a commitment to excellence, Surf strives to develop not only elite athletes, but exceptional individuals, on and off the field.
For more information, visit surfsoccer.com
