Jan 4
Orlando Pride Stars Rafaelle Souza and Halie Mace Announce Engagement
READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Rafaelle Souza, a defender for the Orlando Pride, proposed to her teammate Halie Mace, also a defender, in a romantic gesture captured in a video shared publicly. The announcement came via social media, showing Souza getting down on one knee, presenting a ring to Mace, who accepted with evident emotion. As Orlando Pride teammates in the National Women's Soccer League , their relationship has been a source of support both on and off the pitch.
Souza, originally from Brazil, has been a key player for the Orlando Pride since joining the team. She brings international experience, having represented Brazil at the Olympics and World Cup, where her defensive skills have earned her recognition. Mace, an American defender, joined the Pride and has contributed to the team's dynamics with her vision and passing ability. Their partnership on the field mirrors their personal commitment, fostering team chemistry during the 2025 season.
The engagement video, described as sweet and intimate, has resonated with fans and the broader LGBTQ+ community. It depicts the moment in a scenic, outdoor setting (Brazil, Souza's home country) emphasizing the blend of love and athletic dedication. Social media reactions have poured in, with supporters celebrating the couple's happiness and the positive representation they provide.
This engagement underscores growing visibility for LGBTQ+ relationships in women's professional soccer. The NWSL has seen an increase in openly LGBTQ+ athletes, contributing to a more inclusive environment. Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign note that such public milestones help normalize diverse identities in sports, inspiring younger athletes. Souza and Mace's story aligns with this trend, as teammates who balance high-stakes competition with personal authenticity.
In the context of global sports, Souza's Brazilian background adds a layer of cross-cultural significance. Brazil's national team has included LGBTQ+ players, and Souza's openness promotes acceptance in international soccer. Mace, from the U.S., benefits from the NWSL's progressive stance, where teams like the Orlando Pride actively support Pride initiatives. Their engagement is not just personal but a statement of resilience for transgender people, non-binary individuals, and all LGBTQ+ identities navigating professional athletics.
As the couple heads toward marriage, fans anticipate updates on their wedding plans. The Orlando Pride organization congratulated them via official channels, reinforcing team support for personal milestones. This event comes amid the Pride's strong 2025 season performance, where Souza played a pivotal role in key matches (Mace joined as a free agent once the season had ended).
LGBTQ+ advocates emphasize that stories like this counteract challenges faced by queer athletes, such as discrimination in sports. By sharing their joy openly, Souza and Mace contribute to a culture of affirmation, where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other identities are celebrated. Their journey from teammates to fiancées exemplifies how love thrives in inclusive spaces.
