The United States Women's National Soccer Team has spent the past four months celebrating their first World Cup championship in 16 years. This has been done through rallies, parades, ceremonies, and most recently, a Victory Tour and being honored at the White House. These women played and are now being honored like champions. Throughout the tournament and celebration, they have been respected and honored throughout the nation.
Upon winning the World Cup, the question of retirement arose for many players. For the veterans, it was a question of whether they wanted to go out on top on their own terms, or hang around for another year in the hopes of winning another Olympic gold. For others, it was a question of soccer over health and family. Several players decided it was time for them to hang up their cleats for the national team, and do so as World Champions.
The first to officially retire from the team this year was veteran Shannon Boxx. Although Boxx did not see much playing time during this World Cup, she was a mainstay as a defensive midfielder since she first joined the team in 2003. Boxx was the epitome of mental strength overcoming physical weakness. Despite being diagnosed with lupus, she still managed to play the sport she loved, and win some hardware while she did.
Just one game after Boxx's retirement was the final national game of Lauren (Cheney) Holiday and Lori Chalupny. Holiday, one of the original new kids, joined the USWNT in 2007. She was one of the youngest players on the 2008 Olympic squad. She had an immediate impact on the team with her fluid passing and versatility in the upfield. Chalupny, a defender who joined the team in 2001, made a great impact on the field during her two stints with the team. Due to concussions, she left the team, but returned to the USWNT for the most recent World Cup.
Last to announce her retirement was Abby Wambach. Prior to the World Cup, Wambach had stated that this would be her last major tournament with the USWNT.The 2012 FIFA World Player of the Year and world's leading goal scorer has been argued to be the greatest woman to play the game. She is remembered for getting her head in the game, both mentally and physically. Her attacking and scoring abilities have gone down in history, and she will be remembered as one of soccer's greats.
With all of these legends stepping down, some have questioned the future of the USWNT. With so much young talent as well as some other veterans likely in their last cycle, the team should continue its international success. The team has also made huge steps forward in regard to women's sports in the US. In recent years, the formation and success of the NWSL has allowed women's soccer to grow, and inspired the formation of other women's leagues including the National Women's Hockey League.
The Championship gem of the Women's World Cup was the most watched soccer game in US history. It is clear that women's soccer is on the upswing in our country. In fact, the USWNT was recently honored by President Obama at the White House. In his speech, Obama mentioned the respect so many Americans had for this team, as well as the inspiration they give to little girls and boys throughout the nation. Women can play sports and inspire others to do so. And we can't forget that "This team taught America that playing like a girl means playing like a badass."
