The Women’s Game is a new editorial series written by writer, broadcaster, and former college and pro soccer player Renee Washington for BrooklynFootballClub.com. Each week, Renee goes behind the scenes with Brooklyn FC Women, giving unique insights into the squad and sharing stories of the people behind the crest.
Brooklyn FC Women’s midfielder Emma Loving has been pushing herself on soccer fields since she was four. That’s unsurprising for a professional soccer player.
But off the field, she’s full of surprises.
On any given day, you’re likely to find her in the garden working with flowers or doing some “wood burning” to release her creative side away from the game.
Loving’s Wood Burning Love
Wood burning, formally known as pyrography, is the art of decorating wood or other materials with burn marks. The artist uses a heated object, such as a poker or a specialized tool.
Loving first took up the artform while playing in Germany.
“I’m not totally sure how or why, but I had an itch to try it, so I bought a kit and tried to teach myself,” she says. “I really enjoy making wedding gifts. My favorite piece I’ve done was for my brother. It’s a rendering of his wedding venue.”
Blossoms & Bouquets
This year, Loving added another creative outlet by growing native plants and flowers and creating bouquets. She even started her own flower stand.
“I’ve always loved gardening, and this year I wanted to try out growing a bunch of native plants and flowers and making bouquets,” she says. “I love working with the earth and seeing the ways a garden supports local wildlife and ecosystems. I’ve really enjoyed getting to share this with my community.”
That commitment to the community extends to soccer, and now to Brooklyn FC.
“Emma has stood out as one of the players that brings her full effort every session,” BKFC Women’s General Manager Samantha Johnson said. “She is dedicated to getting better as a player and has a great attitude on pitch.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Loving has worn No. 8 since her first soccer team. Even her dad calls her “8.”
Next Match
Fans can catch Emma Loving and the Brooklyn FC Women in their 2026 Gainbridge Super League Fall Season home opener on Friday, August 21, against DC Power FC. Kick off is at 7:30 PM. Tickets are available now on SeatGeek.
After a loss in their season opener at Lexington SC, the team is looking to rebound.
“Most important thing for me this Friday is a response,” said Head Coach Alex Smith. “We let ourselves down in some key moments and need to be braver and more aggressive. I want to make our home a fortress, somewhere that no team wants to come. That starts Friday.”
