Podcasts > The Women's Game > Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

By Men In Blazers

In this episode of The Women's Game, soccer icon Megan Rapinoe discusses her plans for retirement and her perspective on the USWNT's coaching transition and rising talent. She shares her advocacy priorities for LGBTQ, racial, and gender equality, both in sports and broader civil liberties. The conversation also covers Rapinoe's critique of Saudi Arabia's 2035 Women's World Cup bid and her thoughts on voting in the 2024 US elections.

Rapinoe offers insights on the thoughtful growth and development of women's sports, advocating for nuanced approaches tailored to their unique needs. The retired soccer star provides a candid look at her post-playing career, social activism, and the future she envisions for women's sports and society.

Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

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Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

1-Page Summary

Rapinoe's Post-Retirement Plans

Unofficial Role with USWNT

Megan Rapinoe plans to volunteer with the US Women's National Team (USWNT) in an unofficial capacity after retiring. She will also spend time with her fiancée Sue Bird and attend women's sports events as a fan.

Thoughtful Growth of Women's Sports

Rapinoe and Bird are passionate about the growth of women's sports. Rapinoe emphasizes the importance of strategic advancement through media deals, investment, and increasing player salaries. However, she believes in nuanced approaches tailored for women's sports instead of copying men's models.

Perspective on USWNT Coaching Change

Interim Situation and Emma Hayes

Rapinoe respects Emma Hayes' commitment to Chelsea but understands the USWNT's interim coaching period is challenging for players. She believes Hayes' charisma and media savviness are qualities the team needs.

Young Talent and Team's Future

Rapinoe is impressed by the young USWNT talent, who she believes will establish their own identity and legacy. She sees them as an "insanely talented" group poised for continued success despite transitional challenges.

Social Activism Priorities

Civil Liberties

Rapinoe advocates for LGBTQ, racial, and gender rights. She fights rollbacks on civil liberties, especially protecting trans rights.

Sports Equality

Rapinoe calls out racism, sexism, and homophobia in sports. Her advocacy helped the USWNT achieve equal pay in 2022.

World Cup Bid Concerns

'Sportswashing' Critique

Rapinoe questions Saudi Arabia's bid to host the 2035 Women's World Cup, seeing it as 'sportswashing' to cover up human rights issues. She raises concerns over safety/inclusivity for LGBTQ players.

2024 US Elections

Rapinoe emphasizes the importance of voting against Donald Trump in 2024, subtly indicating a preference for Biden. However, she rejects pursuing a political career herself.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • 'Sportswashing' is a term used to describe the practice of countries or organizations using sports events to improve their public image or divert attention from negative aspects like human rights abuses. It involves using the positive associations of sports to cover up or distract from controversial or problematic issues. In the context of the Women's World Cup bid, Megan Rapinoe is questioning whether Saudi Arabia's bid to host the event is an attempt to sportswash, potentially using the tournament to mask concerns about human rights violations or other issues.
  • Emma Hayes is a prominent English football manager known for her successful tenure at Chelsea FC Women. The mention of her in the context of the USWNT interim coaching situation suggests that there may have been discussions or considerations about her potentially taking on a role with the US Women's National Team during a transitional period.
  • The USWNT stands for the United States Women's National Team. It is the national soccer team representing the United States in international women's soccer competitions. The team has been highly successful, winning multiple FIFA Women's World Cup titles and Olympic gold medals. Megan Rapinoe, a prominent player mentioned in the text, has been a key figure in the USWNT's success and advocacy efforts.
  • LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning individuals. It is an inclusive term for diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. LGBTQ+ encompasses a broad spectrum of identities beyond heterosexual and cisgender norms. The term is used to advocate for the rights and visibility of marginalized communities.
  • Civil liberties encompass fundamental rights and freedoms that governments are obligated to protect, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. They ensure individuals are treated fairly under the law and have the right to privacy and due process. Advocating for civil liberties involves safeguarding these rights from infringement by authorities and promoting equality and justice for all members of society. It is a crucial aspect of upholding democracy and protecting individual autonomy.
  • Sue Bird is a retired professional basketball player who spent her career with the Seattle Storm in the WNBA. She is highly regarded in the basketball world and has achieved numerous accolades, including WNBA championships, Olympic gold medals, NCAA championships, and FIBA World Cups. Bird is known for her exceptional skills as a point guard and her contributions to the sport both domestically and internationally.

Counterarguments

  • While volunteering with the USWNT is commendable, it could be argued that without an official role, Rapinoe's influence on the team and the sport might be limited.
  • The idea of strategic advancement through media deals and investments is sound, but some might argue that increasing player salaries should be balanced with the overall financial health and sustainability of women's sports leagues.
  • Tailoring approaches for women's sports rather than copying men's models is innovative, but some might argue that there are successful strategies in men's sports that could be beneficial if adapted appropriately for women's sports.
  • While respecting Emma Hayes' commitment to Chelsea, some might argue that the USWNT should prioritize finding a long-term coach to provide stability rather than focusing on an individual's charisma and media skills.
  • The optimism about young talent is encouraging, but some might caution that success is not guaranteed and the team must continue to work hard and adapt to maintain their competitive edge.
  • Advocating for civil liberties is important, but some might argue that the focus should be on building broad coalitions that can address these issues in a way that unites rather than divides.
  • The critique of Saudi Arabia's World Cup bid as 'sportswashing' is a serious concern, but others might argue that hosting a major event could be an opportunity for a country to demonstrate progress and commitment to change.
  • Emphasizing the importance of voting against a particular candidate might alienate some fans who support that candidate, and some might argue that public figures should encourage informed voting based on a range of issues rather than focusing on individuals.
  • While Rapinoe indicates a preference for Biden, some might argue that endorsing any political candidate could detract from her advocacy work and polarize her audience.
  • Rejecting a political career is a personal choice, but some might argue that someone with Rapinoe's platform and advocacy experience could make significant contributions in a formal political role.

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Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

Rapinoe's plans in retirement and advocacy for women's sports growth

Megan Rapinoe, a prominent face of women's soccer and advocacy, shares her plans for retirement and her deep commitment to the growth and sustainability of women's sports.

Volunteering to help USWNT in unofficial role as retired player

Megan Rapinoe, after contributing to the historic legal victory for the US women's national team's equal pay in May 2022, looks forward to continuing her support in an unofficial capacity. Her post-retirement plans include spending quality time with her fiancée, basketball star Sue Bird, and attending events together.

Passionate about thoughtful business growth of women’s sports

Rapinoe and Bird share a passion for the current and future state of women's sports, planning to be involved in projects that bolster their growth. Rapinoe is eager to support women's sports as a fan, celebrating the strides and accomplishments of various teams and athletes.

Importance of media deals, investment, player salaries, etc.

Strategic advancement is at the forefront of Rapinoe's agenda for women's sports; she emphasizes the positive changes like new media deals and increases in player salaries. She considers these elements, along with strategic investments in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), crucial to building a sustainable future for women's sports.

Wanting nuanced critiques, not just copying men’s models

Instead of merely replicating the success models of men's leagues, Rapinoe calls for tailored approaches to women's sports that optimize fan and ...

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Rapinoe's plans in retirement and advocacy for women's sports growth

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Sue Bird is a professional basketball player who plays for the Seattle Storm in the WNBA. She is a four-time Olympic gold medalist and has won multiple WNBA championships. Bird is known for her exceptional skills as a point guard and her leadership both on and off the court. She is also openly gay and has been in a relationship with Megan Rapinoe since 2016.
  • Media deals, investments, and player salaries in women's sports are crucial aspects that impact the growth and sustainability of female athletes and leagues. Media deals involve agreements with broadcasting networks to showcase women's sports, increasing visibility and fan engagement. Investments in leagues like the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) provide financial support for infrastructure, player development, and overall growth. Player salaries reflect the financial compensation female athletes receive for their participation, skill level, and contributions to their respective sports. These elements are essential for building a strong foundation and ensuring the success of women's sports on a broader scale.
  • The actions of the US Women's National Team during the 2019 World Cup garnered significant attention due to their on-field success, vocal advocacy for gender equality, and push for better treatment and pay for women in soccer. Their performance and activism during the tournament sparked discussions globally about gender disparities in sports and highlighted the team's role as trailblazers for women's rights in athletics. The players' outspokenness and achievements during the World Cup helped elevate the visibility and importance of women's soccer, inspiring further conversations and actions towards gender equality ...

Counterarguments

  • While volunteering is commendable, Rapinoe's unofficial role may lack the influence of a formal position, potentially limiting her impact on the USWNT and broader initiatives.
  • Passion alone may not be sufficient to promote growth in women's sports; concrete strategies and consistent execution are also critical.
  • The focus on media deals, investments, and player salaries is important, but it should not overshadow the need for grassroots development and accessibility in women's sports.
  • Tailored approaches to women's sports are necessary, but there can still be valuable lessons and best practices to learn from the success of men's sports models.
  • The USWNT's actions during the 2019 World Cup were significant, but ongoing efforts and consistent advocacy are required to maintain momentum and achieve long-term change. ...

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Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

Rapinoe's perspective on 2023 USWNT coaching change and future

Megan Rapinoe shares her candid thoughts on the recent coaching changes within the United States Women's National Soccer Team (USWNT) and her excitement for the future as a new generation of players emerges.

Respects Hayes but interim situation tough for current players

Rapinoe respects Emma Hayes' commitment to Chelsea, understanding that Hayes' decision not to leave early was difficult for the USWNT, which is entering an important year without a permanent head coach. She acknowledges the challenge for the current players due to the timing of the coaching change, suggesting the interim period between coaches is tough, especially approaching a world championship and Olympic cycle.

Rapinoe recognizes that US Soccer made a bet on Hayes' ability to grow the team over the long term and empathizes with the players for the demands of adjusting during this transition period, despite excitement about Hayes. Rapinoe recalls playing for Emma Hayes in Chicago and, despite Hayes being fired from that role, she acknowledges Hayes' charisma and media savviness as qualities that the team needs.

Impressed by young talent but still sees areas for USWNT growth

New generation establishing own identity and legacy

Rapinoe is impressed by the influx of young talent on the USWNT and is positive about the direction of the team. She emphasizes the importance of the new generation in forming its own identity and legacy. Rapinoe notes that, unlike the previous group which was deeply involved in a fight for equal pay, the current era should focus on growth on and off the field, allowing players to find their own lanes and personalities.

Rapinoe expresses her belief that Emma Hayes will be good for the young players, as she will allow them to "just go do their thing and live into themselves," which is crucial for establishing their own identity. She underlines the strength and potential of the team, highlighting that the players have the opportunity to continue shaping what the team becomes. Rapinoe sees an "insanely talented" group that has a real chance to craft a unique chapter in the story o ...

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Rapinoe's perspective on 2023 USWNT coaching change and future

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Emma Hayes is a highly respected English football manager who currently coaches Chelsea Women's Football Club. She is known for her tactical acumen, leadership skills, and success in the women's game. Hayes has a strong coaching background and has been influential in the development of women's football in England.
  • The United States Women's National Soccer Team (USWNT) recently experienced coaching changes, with Emma Hayes initially considered for the head coach position. However, Hayes decided to remain with Chelsea, leading to an interim coaching situation for the USWNT. This transition period has posed challenges for the team as they prepare for upcoming competitions like the world championship and Olympic cycle. Megan Rapinoe and other players have shared their perspectives on the coaching changes and the impact on the team's dynamics and future direction.
  • The fight for equal pay referenced in the text relates to the ongoing battle for gender pay equity in soccer, particularly between the US Women's National Team (USWNT) and the US Men's National Team (USMNT). The USWNT has been advocating for equal pay compared to the USMNT, highlighting disparities in pay, working conditions, and overall support. This issue has gained significant attention globally and has been a focal point in discussions around gender equality in sports.
  • Becky Sauerbrunn is a prominent American soccer player who has been a key figure in the United States Women's National Team (USWNT) for many years, known for her leadership and defensive skills. Savin is not a known player in the context of the USWNT or professional soccer, and there may be a misunderstanding or error in the text regarding this reference.
  • Vlatko Andonovski was the head coach of the United States Women's National Soccer Team (USWNT) before the coaching change. He succeeded Jill Ellis in October 2019. Under his lea ...

Counterarguments

  • While Rapinoe respects Emma Hayes' commitment, some might argue that the USWNT should have prioritized finding a permanent coach sooner to avoid the challenges of an interim period.
  • The influx of young talent is promising, but critics may point out that experience is also crucial, especially in high-pressure tournaments, and the team must find the right balance.
  • Establishing a new identity is important, but there may be concerns about maintaining the high standards and winning culture established by previous generations.
  • While Hayes may be beneficial for young players, others might argue that her coaching style and methods will need to be proven at the international level with the USWNT.
  • The optimism about the future of the team is commendable, but skeptics might suggest that the true test of the team's potential will be their performance in upcoming competitions.
  • Acknowledging the team's transition period is fair, but some may argue that the USWNT should still be held to the high standards of past performances, regardless of the transition.
  • The narrative that the world is catching up to the USWNT could be seen not as a criticism but as a recognition of the global development of women's soccer, which could ultimately benefit t ...

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Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

Social activism priorities

Megan Rapinoe's leadership on and off the field has solidified her role as a champion for social activism, advancing LGBTQ, racial, and gender rights while vigorously standing against discrimination in sports.

Advancing LGBTQ, racial, and gender rights

Fighting rollbacks on civil liberties

Rapinoe has been a passionate advocate for various civil liberties, focusing on racial equality, paid maternity leave, equal pay, and particularly LGBTQ rights, where she emphasizes the current critical need to protect trans rights. Publicly coming out as gay ahead of the Olympics in 2012, she has not only set an example but has led the US women's national team to a gold medal. Rapinoe's actions on and off the field demonstrate her dedication to fighting rollbacks on civil liberties.

Calling out racism, sexism, and homophobia in sports

Megan Rapinoe has made it her mission to address the persistent issues of racism, sexism, and homophobia in sports. She has acknowledged the importance of having conversatio ...

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Social activism priorities

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Rollbacks on civil liberties typically refer to the reversal or reduction of rights and freedoms that individuals or groups previously enjoyed. This can include changes to laws, policies, or practices that restrict or limit civil rights, such as freedom of speech, assembly, or equal treatment under the law. Rollbacks can have significant implications for marginalized communities and may lead to increased discrimination or inequality. Advocates like Megan Rapinoe work to prevent these rollbacks and protect civil liberties for all individuals.
  • The US women's national soccer team filed a lawsuit against the US Soccer Federation in 2019, alleging gender discrimination in pay and working conditions. The lawsuit highlighted disparities between the compensation and r ...

Counterarguments

  • While Megan Rapinoe's advocacy for equal pay has been successful within US Soccer, some argue that the broader issue of pay disparity in sports is complex, involving factors like revenue generation and viewership, which may not always align with the principle of equal pay for equal work.
  • Critics of focusing on conversations about equality in sports argue that while these discussions are important, they should not overshadow or replace concrete actions and policy changes that lead to measurable outcomes.
  • Some people believe that the emphasis on protecting trans rights, particularly in sports, should be balanced with considerations for fairness and the integrity of women's sports, suggesting that there needs to be a nuanced approach to policy-making in this area.
  • There is a viewpoint that public figures like Rapinoe should not use their platform to advocate for political or social issues, suggesting that athletes should remain apolitical and focus solely on their sport.
  • Concerns have been raised about the potential for advocacy to become divisive, with some arguing that the way certain issues are presented by activists can polarize rather than unite different groups within society.
  • It has been ...

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Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

Concerns about World Cup bid and sportswashing by Saudi Arabia

Megan Rapinoe challenges the prospect of Saudi Arabia, with its contentious human rights record, hosting the 2035 Women's World Cup.

Helping local women see sports role models vs. covering up human rights issues

Rapinoe acknowledges the potential positives of Saudi Arabia hosting the World Cup, such as local women gaining visibility of women's sports and female athletes, which could serve as role models in a place where such opportunities are rare. However, she raises critical concerns over FIFA's motivations behind considering Saudi Arabia's bid, seeing it as a pursuit of money and influence rather than a focus on the sport's values.

Rapinoe questions Saudi Arabia's efforts, termed 'sportswashing,' where a country invests heavily in global s ...

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Concerns about World Cup bid and sportswashing by Saudi Arabia

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Sportswashing is a term used to describe the practice of using sports to improve a tarnished reputation. It involves nations, individuals, or groups using sporting events or sponsorships to divert attention from negative actions or issues. This strategy is often seen as a form of propaganda or reputation laundering. Sportswashing can occur at international, individual, or corporate levels, with the aim of enhancing public perception through association with sports.
  • Male guardianship laws in Saudi Arabia are regulations that require women to have a male guardian, typically a father, husband, brother, or even a son, who must grant permission for various activities like travel, marriage, and sometimes even medical procedures. These laws have been criticized for restricting women's autonomy and perpetuating gender inequality. The system has been gradually reformed in recent years, with some restrictions being lifted, but the practice still exists in various forms in Saudi society.
  • In Saudi Arabia, homosexuality is considered illegal under the country's interpretation of Islamic law. The legal system in Saudi Arabia criminalizes same-sex sexual activity, and individuals engaging in such behavior can face severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and even corporal punishment. The societal and legal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals in Saudi Arabia are conservative, and public displays of same-sex affection are not tolerated. LGBTQ+ rights activists face significant challenges in advocating for equality and acceptance in the country.
  • FIFA's motivations for considering Saudi Arabia's bid could be influenced by factors such as financial gains, expanding the reach of the sport, and potentially promoting gender equality through the visibility of women's sports in a region where it is limited. FIFA's decision-making process involves various considerations, including the potential impact on the sport globally, the development of women's football, and the overall growth of ...

Counterarguments

  • Hosting the World Cup in Saudi Arabia could accelerate social change and reform within the country, including improvements in human rights.
  • FIFA may consider that engaging with countries that have problematic records can be a part of a broader strategy to encourage positive developments.
  • Saudi Arabia's bid could be part of a genuine commitment to reform and to promote gender equality in sports and society.
  • The economic benefits of hosting a World Cup could be used to fund social programs and initiatives within Saudi Arabia, including those aimed at empowering women and minority groups.
  • The visibility of a global event like the Women's World Cup could provide an international platform for activists and organizations to highlight issues and advocate for change.
  • Saudi Arabia's investment in sports could be part of a broader national strategy to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil, which could have positive long-term effects for i ...

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Friendlies with Sam Mewis 03/14/24: With Megan Rapinoe

Voting rights and upcoming 2024 US elections

Megan Rapinoe, known for her nuanced understanding of social issues, expresses strong opinions about the importance of voting in the upcoming US election year.

Rapinoe emphasizes the significance of voter participation, urging listeners to cast their votes against Donald Trump, whom she finds unfit for the presidency. She subtly indicates a preference for Biden over Trump by discussing the chatter surrounding Biden and illustrative memes that bluntly suggest dire consequences if Trump is chosen again, hinting at a future where voting may no longer be possible.

Although Rapinoe underscores the necessity of staying engaged with the election, she rejects the idea of pursuing a political caree ...

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Voting rights and upcoming 2024 US elections

Additional Materials

Clarifications

...

Counterarguments

  • Voter participation is crucial, but focusing solely on presidential candidates may overlook the importance of local and state elections, which also significantly impact citizens' lives.
  • While Rapinoe urges a vote against Trump, some voters may believe that policies and party platforms should be the primary focus rather than individual personalities.
  • Indicating a preference for Biden may not consider the full spectrum of political candidates and parties that could offer diverse perspectives and solutions.
  • Memes, while culturally significant, may not always convey the depth of political discourse required for informed decision-making.
  • The suggestion of a future where voting may not be possible could be seen as an extreme view that may not take into account the robustness of the American democratic system.
  • While Rapinoe rejects a political career due to a self-a ...

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