5 of the Fastest Rising But Also Late to the Party Soccer Players in History (and What We Can Learn From Them)

You’ve signed up for your first NYC Footy league. Maybe you’re feeling a little nervous, wondering if you’ve got what it takes—or if you’ll just spend the season trying to remember which way you're supposed to be shooting.

Hey, we’ve all been there. Even the greatest players in history started somewhere. Some were late bloomers. Others went from total unknowns to game-changers seemingly overnight. And a few even saved their best moves after they hung up their boots.

So, in honor of every beginner finding their footing (and maybe their left foot), here are 5 of the best "beginner" soccer players in history—plus what we can steal from their success stories.

1. Didier Drogba – The Late Bloomer Turned Legend

Drogba didn’t join a professional academy until he was 21 (practically ancient in soccer years), and he didn’t make his Premier League debut with Chelsea until he was 26. But once he got going? Pure chaos for defenders. He became one of Chelsea’s all-time greats, winning four Premier League titles and scoring clutch goals in major finals.

Beginner takeaway: You’re never too late to start balling. It’s not about how early you start—it’s how much heart you bring when you do.

2. Jamie Vardy – From Factory Floors to Premier League Glory

Vardy was playing in non-league soccer and working in a factory at age 23. Most pros at that age are peaking—he was barely getting noticed. But then came his rocket ride: Leicester City signed him, he exploded in the Premier League, and helped lead the most unexpected title win in English football history in 2016.

Beginner takeaway: Keep showing up. The grind pays off. That Tuesday night game at Bushwick Inlet could be the start of something epic (or at least a free beer and epic skyline views).

3. Marta – From a Dirt Field in Brazil to GOAT Status

Marta didn’t have fancy cleats or elite coaching growing up—just raw talent and relentless drive. She was often the only girl playing street soccer in Brazil. Fast forward: she’s a six-time FIFA World Player of the Year and the all-time top scorer in World Cup history (yes, men’s or women’s).

Beginner takeaway: Don’t let your environment define you. Talent can come from anywhere, and so can greatness.

4. George Weah – From War-Torn Liberia to the Ballon d'Or

Weah grew up playing barefoot in the streets of Monrovia. He wasn’t scouted until his late teens, but within a few years, he was scoring goals for AC Milan and became the first (and only) African player to win the Ballon d'Or. Oh—and after retiring? He casually became the President of Liberia.

Beginner takeaway: The field can be the start of any journey. Soccer may be your intro, but who knows where it takes you next?

5. Megan Rapinoe – Finding Her Voice Later, Then Changing the Game

Rapinoe was a solid but not a superstar player early in her career. Injuries slowed her down, but when she hit her stride, she did it with style and swagger. Her leadership during the 2019 World Cup and activism off the field made her a household name and global icon.

Beginner takeaway: Your impact isn’t just about goals. It’s how you show up for your team—and what you do with the platform soccer gives you.

So, What’s the Lesson for NYC Footy First-Timers?

You don’t need to be the fastest, strongest, or most experienced player on the field. You just need to start.

Every season, we see new players become team captains, build lifelong friendships, and level up their game way faster than they expected. The secret? Show up, have fun, and don’t be afraid to make a few (or a dozen) mistakes.

Because legends aren’t born—they’re made on the field. Even the ones in borrowed shin guards.

Want to start writing chapter one of your soccer story?

👉 Check out our beginner-friendly leagues here.