The Women's Game • Men In Blazers

In this episode of The Women's Game podcast, the hosts analyze recent matches and events across major women's soccer leagues. They spotlight milestone moments like Sam Mewis' induction into the North Carolina Courage Ring of Honor and the sellout crowd at Kansas City's new stadium, showcasing the sport's growing popularity.

The discussion also turns to concerns over fixture congestion and its impact on player health and injury rates. Mewis and Williams candidly address how the increasing demands on athletes jeopardize their well-being and call for greater investment in supporting players amid the continuing growth of women's soccer.

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.

As the NWSL's new season approaches, expectations run high for an exciting year. This episode previews key developments, including the league's expanded television coverage with over 100 nationally broadcast games through the new ESPN/ABC deal. The addition of two expansion teams, Bay FC and Utah Royals, promises fresh talent and storylines.

The episode also examines significant offseason moves, notably Gotham FC's star-studded roster acquisitions like Rose Lavelle, Crystal Dunn, and Emily Sonnett. Other highlights include new ownership groups, recently retired USWNT players taking coaching roles, and insights on potential award winners and championship contenders.

The Women's Game podcast provides an inside look into the USWNT's triumph at the inaugural CONCACAF W Gold Cup. The episode recounts the team's resilience amid challenging conditions during tense matches against formidable CONCACAF and CONMEBOL opponents.

Additionally, the return of Kat Macario from an ACL injury and her impressive start at Chelsea are highlighted, along with the recent arrivals of national team stars like Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett at Gotham FC in preparation for the NWSL Challenge Cup. The episode offers insightful perspectives from players while chronicling the USWNT's remarkable Gold Cup run and key player comebacks.

In this episode of The Women's Game, soccer player Bethany Balcer opens up about the mental health challenges athletes face, including her own experience with anxiety during a game. She advocates for open discussions on mental health and redefining success in sports beyond traditional metrics.

The episode also delves into Balcer's unconventional path to professional soccer, bypassing the typical NCAA route. As an undrafted rookie with the Seattle Reign, she won Rookie of the Year, highlighting her unique journey. Additionally, Balcer shares her efforts in advocating for equal investment in women's sports and supporting the next generation of aspiring female athletes.