President Joe Biden recently welcomed the Gotham Football Club to the White House, celebrating them as the first National Women’s Soccer League championship team to receive this honor. The team, representing New York and New Jersey, had a remarkable journey throughout the 2023 season. Despite starting at the bottom of the league, Gotham’s squad managed to overcome all odds and emerge victorious.
During his speech, President Biden commended the team for their perseverance and determination. He highlighted how they restructured their roster, brought in a new coach, and eventually found success. The team’s incredible turnaround saw them go from struggling in the league to securing a spot in the playoffs and ultimately clinching the championship. Biden emphasized the importance of resilience and the ability to rise above challenges.
The President also acknowledged the growing popularity of women’s sports, noting that the previous year’s NWSL final had attracted a record-breaking crowd of 25,011 fans at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. This milestone reflects the increasing support and recognition that women’s sports are garnering across the country.
Former U.S. women’s national soccer team star Ali Krieger, who recently retired, was invited on stage by President Biden. Krieger expressed deep gratitude on behalf of her teammates for being the first NWSL team to be honored at the White House. She highlighted the progress that women’s soccer has made over the years, from facing a lack of coverage and support to achieving remarkable success and growth. Krieger emphasized the importance of inspiring young girls who dream of pursuing a career in sports.
While Gotham FC made history as the first NWSL team to visit the White House, they are not the only women’s soccer team to receive this recognition. Previous leagues like the Women’s United Soccer Association and the Women’s Professional Soccer league have also had teams invited in the past. The NWSL, in particular, has been commended for its investments in the sport, leading to increased viewership and engagement.
The league’s recent collective bargaining agreement, negotiated by the players’ union, has granted athletes more control over their careers and improved working conditions. This includes higher minimum salaries, expanded parental leave, and child care benefits for players. Krieger emphasized that this moment is about more than just titles and trophies; it’s about paving the way for future generations of female athletes.
As women’s soccer continues to grow and thrive, the recognition of teams like Gotham FC at the White House serves as a testament to the dedication and talent of female athletes. The journey to success is ongoing, but each milestone achieved paves the way for a brighter future in women’s sports.
