Megan Rapinoe’s return to Washington state after winning the 2019 Women’s World Cup was celebrated at Tacoma’s Cheney Stadium. Although she did not play for Reign FC that day, her presence drew fans who wanted a glimpse of the pink-haired star who had become an American icon. Rapinoe credits her time with the NWSL club, now called the OL Reign, for her success on the world stage. She believes that her growth as a player and unlocking the tactical aspect of the game, along with her natural talent, were made possible by her time with the Reign and the guidance of head coach Laura Harvey.
Rapinoe has been with the Reign since the NWSL’s inaugural season in 2013. She has achieved numerous accolades with the club, including three NWSL Shields and the title of the Reign’s leading goalscorer. But beyond her personal success, her time with the Reign has ushered in a new era for both her career and women’s soccer as a whole.
Before the NWSL, club soccer was not a primary focus in the women’s game, especially for players on the U.S. women’s national team. Previous attempts at professional women’s soccer leagues had failed, but the NWSL’s ability to endure has allowed the women’s game to find its place within the global soccer structure. This has attracted top players from around the world to compete in the NWSL, making it a highly competitive league.
Harvey, who is one of the few women coaching in the league, credits Rapinoe’s support and belief in her coaching philosophy for her own success. Rapinoe’s commitment to the team and willingness to carry Harvey’s message elevated both of their careers.
The success of the NWSL has had a significant impact on women’s soccer. Rapinoe’s stellar performance in the 2019 World Cup contributed to a post-tournament boom in attendance for NWSL matches. Overall attendance for the league increased from approximately 651,000 in 2018 to over 1 million in the following year. In her final regular season home game, Rapinoe helped set the league’s attendance record, with over 34,000 fans filling Lumen Field.
This success has also attracted increased investment in the women’s game, demonstrated by higher team valuations and the launch of new expansion teams. The growth of the NWSL has influenced the development of women’s soccer globally, leading to a more competitive World Cup and increased investment in European leagues.
Rapinoe’s impact extends beyond the field. She is known for her activism, advocating for various causes including equal pay and racial equality. Her advocacy efforts have earned her both praise and backlash, but her persistence has helped change the perception of women’s soccer and push for continued progress.
As Rapinoe moves into the next phase of her career, she promises to remain involved in supporting and amplifying important causes. Her legacy challenges those in the women’s game to continue pushing for growth and change. By following her example of wholehearted dedication and acknowledging everyone’s role in advancing the sport, we can honor her impact on women’s soccer going forward.
