Did you
happen to see the front page of the sports section on Monday (July 6), where
the American women’s soccer team was celebrating its victory over Japan in the
World Cup Final?
In the
background, hanging over the railing, is the Arizona state flag.
It was a
symbol of support and a symbol of hope for our state, and the young athletes
playing the sport here. It certainly helps that American player Julie Johnston
was a graduate of Mesa Dobson High and played club ball in the Valley.
If a young
woman was sitting atop the fence, deciding whether she should give the sport a
try, perhaps the emotion of the moment will motivate her to make the move.
Perhaps not
this coming season, but in future years, when the new players will sprout their
wings, the programs such as the ones at Xavier Prep and others around the state
will get stronger because of it.
It will be
exciting to see, that’s for sure.
Xavier fans
will get to see the unveiling of the new Gators team this winter, under the
leadership of coach Barb Chura, so come out to Petznick Field and watch. These
players work hard and one day, you might just see one of them in a World Cup
Final.