Former HP star, college standout optimistic about rookie year
Maja Lardner admits she’s never been the best judge of her own talent. And until recently, she wasn’t sure whether professional soccer was in her future.
With two degrees from Georgetown University, including a master’s in real estate, she was prepared for a new career. But her coaches with the Hoyas, where she was the Big East conference offensive player of the year in both 2024 and 2025, insisted that she keep her goals focused on the field.
Sure enough, the former Highland Park standout signed her first pro contract in January with Racing Louisville FC of the National Women’s Soccer League. The deal is for two years with a mutual option for the 2028 campaign. Louisville begins its season on March 14.
“I wasn’t aware of how good of a player I was,” Lardner said. “Playing professional had always been a dream of mine, but I never knew how tangible it would actually be. I knew if the opportunity presented itself, I would take it.”
Lardner is a 2021 HP graduate who has spent the last five seasons as a striker at perennial power Georgetown, where she recorded 31 goals and 20 assists in 91 games.
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She helped Georgetown win three conference titles and was the top scorer for a team that reached the third round of the NCAA tournament in November before falling to eventual national champion Florida State. After that, she signed with an agent and spoke with a few teams.
“I had a really good senior year, and that’s when I considered it,” Lardner said. “I’ve always had more of an underdog mentality. Every year, being surrounded by such great talent allowed me to rise to a new level and get better and better.”
Said Racing Louisville coach Bev Yanez: “Maja brings versatility across the front line and is relentless in her press. She works extremely hard, and we’re excited to welcome her to the group.”
Lardner played four years for the Lady Scots, highlighted by a Class 5A state title in 2019, when she was named the championship game MVP. She cited the foundation and culture with both the Lady Scots and Hoyas as reasons why Louisville was the right fit.
“I chose to sign with Racing Louisville because of the incredible culture they’ve built and the clear vision for where the club is headed,” she said. “I felt so supported and excited about the opportunity to learn and grow alongside such a competitive group. It became a no-brainer that this was the best spot for me.”
