Courses
From Ireland to world stage: Performance nutritionist joins U.S Women’s National Soccer Team
For Hannah E. Thornton, a graduate of the MSc in Applied Sports and Exercise Nutrition from Atlantic Technological University (ATU), a dream career has become reality when she was appointed Performance Nutritionist with the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT).
Originally from Dublin, Hannah progressed into elite high-performance sport after completing her MSc.
She officially began her role as an Independent Contractor Performance Nutritionist with the USWNT in June 2025 and is currently supporting the team remotely, with plans to travel to domestic training camps in the United States following visa approval.
Widely regarded as one of the most successful teams in world sport, the U.S Women’s National Soccer Team, are four-time World Cup and five-time Olympic champion and global leaders in women’s high-performance football.
In her role, Hannah supports player health, availability and performance through evidence-based, practical nutrition strategies. Her day-to-day work includes planning and delivering nutrition support around training camps and matches, collaborating closely with medical and performance staff, and providing individualised guidance to players to support recovery, travel and competition demands. Planning is a central part of the role, from coordinating meals and timing strategies to working with different vendors across multiple cities.
Speaking about her appointment, Hannah described it as a significant professional achievement.
“This appointment is a huge professional milestone and something I am very proud of. Working with the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, is an opportunity to contribute at the very highest level of the sport. It reflects years of education, applied experience and a commitment to athlete-centred practice. It’s both an honour and a responsibility.”
The role also involves supporting the team across major international competitions, including World Cup qualification campaigns this year, with a view to future tournaments such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil in 2027 and the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.
Hannah credits her time at ATU as a key foundation for her career in elite sport.
The MSc in Applied Sport & Exercise Nutrition at ATU provided an excellent foundation, with a strong emphasis on translating science into practice. The course helped me develop critical thinking skills, a deep understanding of human physiology, and the confidence to apply evidence-based nutrition strategies in real-world performance settings. That applied focus has been essential throughout my career and gave me the belief to apply for roles like this.
She also highlighted the impact of ATU staff on her development, singling out programme coordinator Nóra Ní Fhlannagáin.
“Several lecturers and mentors played an important role in shaping how I problem-solve in high-performance environments, but Nóra Ní Fhlannagáin really stands out. Her enthusiasm for applied sports nutrition is electrifying, and her support during and after the course has been second to none.”
Nóra Ní Fhlannagáin, Programme Co-ordinator of the MSc in Applied Sport & Exercise Nutrition at ATU, said Hannah’s appointment is an outstanding achievement.
“Hannah’s success is a testament to her dedication and professionalism, as well as the strength of the MSc programme. Seeing a graduate progress to a role with the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT), highlights the calibre of our students and growing reputation in applied sport and performance nutrition.”
Offering advice to current students aspiring to work in elite sport, Hannah emphasised the importance of patience, adaptability and practical experience.
“Focus on building strong fundamentals, seek out applied experience wherever possible, and be patient with the process. Elite sport values professionalism, consistency and the ability to work well within multidisciplinary teams. Stay curious, keep learning, connect with others, and always be eager to get better.”
Find out more about the programme: https://www.atu.ie/courses/master-of-science-applied-sport-and-exercise-nutrition
Photo caption: Hannah E Thornton
Ivana Hanjs
Communications Officer
Atlantic Technological University
Mob: 089 963 9559
Email: ivana.hanjs@atu.ie
