One of the greatest women to ever take the pitch played her last game on December 16, 2015. A friendly soccer match against China was all that stood between the great Abby Wambach and hanging up her cleats, for the last time. Though she dedicated fourteen selfless years to the United States Women’s National Team, she further proved her remarkable character with one last request: “Make them forget me.”
Former soccer all-star, and current avid fan of the USWNT, Katie Kelsoe shares her insight on Abby's greatest moments. "I think there’s one thing Abby hasn’t quite grasped yet; yes, the game will go on, there will be many greats after her, but there will never be another Abby Wambach. As a little girl I can remember wanting to be just like her, and many other successful women who have graced the pitch with their talents and inspired many other girls to believe in themselves, on and off the field. Abby inspired me to work hard and believe in myself, and I have no doubt she played a part in shaping who I am."
Kelsoe shares ten of the most impacting milestones of Wambach's career.
1. NCAA Title (1998)
Wambach is simply a winning player; at the age of 18, she led Florida to its only national championship. Major feat for a freshman, right? Abby was considered the nation's top recruit, which was only reaffirmed in her title victory against powerhouse team North Carolina. Wambach notched 19 goals and 12 assists in 26 games during the championship season.
2. Olympic Gold Medal (2004)
Less than a year after losing the semifinal at the Women's World Cup --Abby's first with the USWNT-- Wambach's header in the 112th minute of the gold-medal game against Brazil lifted the squad in a 2-1 victory and the top spot on the podium.
3. 100 (2009)
While playing in a friendly against Canada in her hometown of Rochester, New York, Wambach nabbed her 100th international goal in front of an adoring crowd.
4. Tough As Nails (Well, Staples) (2010)
During a World Cup qualifier against Mexico, Wambach collided with another player and blood poured from her head. Since she's Abby, however, she opted not to be taken off the field. She just settled for a good stapling, right on the pitch. So tell me, Suarez, how do you take staples like a girl?
WARNING: This video is not for the faint of heart (or stomach):
5. Head On (2011)
Tied in the 122nd minute with Brazil in their World Cup quarterfinal showdown, Wambach did what she does best; she headed a crossed ball from Megan Rapinoe into the net for a crucial goal. The team advanced to the semis during penalty kicks, but it was Number 20's heroics that are best remembered from the game. In a poll conducted by FIFA before the 2015 Women's World Cup, fans named it the best moment in tournament history. Don't believe me? Just watch.
6. Officially The Best (2012)
A decade with the national team and multiple honors with U.S. soccer under her belt, Wambach finally earned the most prestigious honor in the sport: the FIFA World Player of the Year.
Player of the Year: 2012, Player of the Century: Always.
7. Burritos 4 Lyfe (2012)
Kelsoe says, "Sure, there are other things on this list that might be more important in soccer history, but whatever. Wambach was granted the ultimate sign of respect when Chipotle gifted her with the coveted gold card, granting her FREE BURRITOS FOR LIFE. Life doesn’t get much better than that."
8. Going Hamm, And Then Some (2013)
Wambach surpassed Mia Hamm's record of most international goals by any player (158) with a hat trick in a game against South Korea. She retires with the title, and a record of 184 international goals.
9. Tying the Knot (2013)
In front of her family, friends and teammates, Wambach married her long-term partner and fellow soccer player Sarah Huffman in a ceremony in Hawaii. She had never previously spoken on the record about her sexual orientation, thus the nuptials received mass media attention. The private couple did not share photos of the event, but Huffman did eventually share a photo of their dogs.
And one more, for good measure:
The emotional leader of the team, Wambach brought the USWNT to its first World Cup title in 16 years. Wambach's role was reduced from previous tournaments. Starting in just three games, with little play in an additional four, fans wary of her retirement were unsettled. Still, she scored the winning goal in a qualifying-round game against Nigeria. Kelsoe notes, "She announced before the start of the campaign it would be her final World Cup, and she clearly made it count."
"Abby may want the world to forget her, to move on and keep pushing forward and advancing women’s soccer, but there is one thing I know for sure. She will remain in so many hearts, memories, and inspirations. Many little girls will grow up remembering that she can do anything if she puts her whole heart into it. Thank you Abby, for all the years and memories. I will never forget you, #20."
Thanks a million to Katie Kelsoe for her stellar contribution to this, a humble tribute to Captain America, herself: Abby Wambach.
