Megan Rapinoe Isn’t the Same on the USWNT
Megan Rapinoe has been a familiar face on the U.S. Women’s National Team for many years now. She made a name for herself as one of the best in the world, but now her role on the field has changed.
Rapinoe made her debut for the senior national team in 2006 and earned 190 appearances. In those appearances, she scored 62 goals and tallied 72 assists. She’s helped the U.S. win two World Cups, an Olympic gold and bronze medal.
Rapinoe has been a leader on this team for many years, even wearing the captain’s armband throughout the last few years, but now, at the age of 37, she’s taken on a new role.
Younger USWNT
The USWNT is going through change, bringing in a lot of youth and new faces. It’s a necessary change if the U.S. wants to stay on top of the world rankings.
It’s a much younger team, with only seven of the 23-player qualifying roster above the age of 30.
Even with the insertion of youth and new faces, it’s still important to have the veteran presence, which is where Rapinoe comes into the picture. She’s not going to get the minutes that we have grown used to seeing her play.
Leadership Role
There’s no doubt that Rapinoe can still contribute on the field, but there has been a shift. It’s her off-the-field contributions that make her a necessity for this team.
Rapinoe brings the experience and leadership that a young team needs especially heading into a World Cup year. In an interview with ESPN, she acknowledged her new responsibility as a mentor to the younger players who have gotten call-ups to the national team and to those who are still waiting for that chance.
Additionally, Megan Rapinoe struggled with a string of injuries that left her considering retirement. After working through these feelings and adversities, she is back and ready to impact the USWNT in a different way.
Rapinoe went through many parts of the USWNT’s journey, including the hard times, like when the team nearly didn’t qualify for the 2011 World Cup. Being part of the team during that time gave her the experience to shape these players as they head into a new chapter. It’s no secret that the team isn’t as dominant as in years past, so the team will undoubtedly need Rapinoe’s wisdom and leadership as they try to function better as a cohesive unit going into 2023.
Off the Field
The midfielder is truly one of a kind and has used her platform to change the world for the better, both inside and outside the boundaries of the sport. Earlier this month, the President honored her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
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It’s the highest civilian honor for individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors.
While Megan Rapinoe’s minutes on the field have diminished, she’s still a huge part of the leadership on this team and of the sport. Although it’s a bit sad to see such a legend winding down in her soccer career, it’s amazing to watch her excel in her advocacy and social justice work!
Featured image via @uswnt on Instagram
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