How the SheBelieves Development Program Offers Opportunities to Young Women

U.S. Soccer’s SheBelieves development program inspires and creates the next generation of USWNT fans and players. It exists to help all girls reach their dreams, whether they’re athletic or not. U.S. Soccer started the program during the exciting build-up to the 2015 Women’s World Cup. It has since taken on a life of its own.

The SheBelieves development program incorporates several different campaigns to achieve its goals. Here are the main ones:

SheBelieves Cup

The SheBelieves Cup organization invites three top national teams to play the USWNT. The 2021 edition will feature Canada, Brazil, and Argentina, though past invitees include women’s soccer juggernauts France, England, and Germany. Though the tournament is considered a series of friendly matches, it’s an opportunity to get top-level women’s soccer in front of fans and provides the teams with opportunities to get competitive games in the lead-up to major tournaments.

SheBelieves Summit

The SheBelieves Summit hosts virtual panels and activities for college soccer players and young pros about building soccer careers. You can also watch talks from previous summits for free. 

SheBelieves Interns

SheBelieves Interns hires college students to work 8-10 weeks over the summer in areas where women are under-represented. There are openings for U.S. Soccer and other companies. You can check out the current opportunities here.

SheBelieves Online Academy

SheBelieves Online Academy is a free opportunity you can take part in at any time. It aims to build confidence in young women and provide a sense of community. The academy deals with the tough realities women face and how best to navigate them. Topics covered include facing down harmful societal norms, changing negative thoughts, and stepping into roles typically held by men.

SheBelieves Hero Award

U.S. Soccer gives the SheBelieves Hero Award to a young woman between the ages of 13–17 who embodies the SheBelieves spirit. You can apply on Instagram or Twitter between January 11th and March 1st. The winner gets a trip for two to a USWNT friendly and a VIP game experience.

SheBelieves offers so many opportunities for girls’ soccer players and other young women. What’s more, the programs are designed to be affordable and accessible. Check out their website, or #SheBelieves on Twitter and Instagram.

Featured Image via ussoccer.com