At just 15 years old, Caroline Wintz is already building a unique football journey between the United States and Albania.

Born and raised in Maryland, Caroline grew up playing soccer in the American system. Her mother is Albanian and her father is American, giving her a connection to both countries from an early age.

But as her football career developed, so did her desire to represent her Albanian roots.

Caroline has already been called up several times to Albania’s U14 national team. She has also represented the United States in futsal, including appearances in Brazil.

Now, another chapter of her journey has begun.

Caroline has been called up to Albania’s U17 women’s national team for the Women’s U17 EURO qualifiers, where Albania will face Ireland, Kosovo and Azerbaijan.

For a young player who has spent her football development in Maryland, being called up to the red-and-black national team represents a special connection between where she grew up and where her family comes from.

Her story is also one that many young Albanians in the diaspora can relate to: growing up thousands of miles from Albania while carrying a strong connection to their roots.

Caroline is only 15, but she has already experienced football in two different national systems and on two different international stages. Now, she has another opportunity to wear the red and black and continue writing her story with Albania.