True, the WNT is one of the greatest (if not THE greatest) teams, but I’m not so sure that they aren’t heard of anymore. Halfway across the world their reputation precedes them.
Trying to speak to the Chinese fans was slightly difficult due to the language barrier, but one after another would point to the US crest on my Nike Anthem Jacket and say “USA! I love the USA Ladies! They are number 1!”
Still, I was impressed with the first US fans I ran into at Chengdu Stadium. Covered in red, white and blue face paint, while sporting a gigantic American Flag, this crew flew all the way from L.A. to follow the team through the tournament. Now that's the dedication I"m looking for.
Undoubtedly the most memorable fans are the friends and family of the WNT. The Kai’s might have won the “best team spirit award,” leaving the island of Hawaii to cheer on their beloved Tash. Mom, Dad, brothers and even the family doctor came in true Kai fashion—full facepaint, signs and the Hawaiian state flag.
What do the players think of all this support halfway across the world? “I love it,” Hope Solo told me in an interview a few days ago, “It brings the fun back into the game.” She has good reason to, as, “Most of the fans happen to be my family—all decked out with ‘Solo #18,’ goalkeeper gloves on, and their hair dyed blue.”
Speaking with the friends and family who have made the 20-hour journey to China, it’s clear that they are here because they know just how important winning this tournament is to their daughters, granddaughters, sisters, girlfriends, nieces, and friends. Playing in this tournament has been a dream for their girls since they were wearing their socks on the inside of their shin guards in rec. And as hard as the WNT is working on the field, rest assured these fans are doing their job to keep their spirits high.
But don’t think the WNT has forgotten about the fans back home. “To know that people are going to be in their living rooms cheering us on is very inspirational,” Tarp told us before leaving, while Boxxy added, “we need their support!”
You heard it. Our WNT needs you. Make sure to tune in for their next game, as they take on England in the quarterfinals of the 2007 Women’s World Cup, June 22 8am EST on ESPN2.
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