Soccer Gratitude: What We’re Thankful For This Year

The year 2023 has seen its ups and downs. But mostly, we’re glad we got to experience another year of girls’ and women’s soccer. We’ve seen tremendous growth in the game over the last year, and we’re excited to see it continue. From being able to watch pro soccer in a stadium to getting to play club, high school, or college soccer, we have a lot to be thankful for and grateful for this year!

Watching Soccer 

From the Women’s World Cup to the NWSL to the NCAA, elite soccer has been nothing short of incredible. Record attendance levels are being broken across the board. There’s just no replacement for that energetic atmosphere, and we’re thankful for the ways that we can access the beautiful game.

Road Trips to Games

Over the COVID-19 pandemic, we realized how much we missed those car and bus rides with many clubs and school soccer programs back in full swing. Those moments of team bonding are irreplaceable. Absolutely nothing beats jamming to music and being goofy with your teammates on the way to your soccer game. We’re thankful for those priceless moments of teammates sharing their love for soccer. 

Early Wakeups 

Maybe this isn’t the most glorious part of 2023, but it’s still something to be grateful for. From waking up early to watch an anticipated game, like when the USWNT played in the Women’s World Cup, to getting up at the crack of dawn to carpool to your game, sacrificing a little bit of sleep for the beautiful game is something we shouldn’t take for granted. Even though it’s difficult, waking up early determines a routine, something that helps us all thrive.

Soccer Gear

There is nothing better than pulling out those cleats and lacing ‘em up. From uniforms to pre-wrap, we’re grateful to have all of the necessities for our sport–and be able to show off some fire soccer ‘fits at the same time. Not to mention, we’re grateful to see a new era of the stunning USWNT kit. 

Playing the Beautiful Game

Of course, how could we ever forget that the greatest thing to be thankful for this year is playing soccer? We are more appreciative than ever for the game, teammates, coaches, refs, and parents. 

Featured image via @Andrey Popov

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