Seattle Reign FC sent off its two USWNT stars to the World Cup Friday May 22 in ceremonies at The Space Needle and Memorial Stadium.
In the afternoon Hope Solo and Megan Rapinoe were a part of the USWNT #SheBelieves project.
Both players took the opportunity to field questions from a couple dozen young players in attendance.
Player questions triggered stories and reflections on previous tournaments, including both players reflecting on last minute heroics against Brazil in 2011 and interactions with the Japanese players after the heartbreaking final.
To her credit Solo did not dodge the question from the audience dealing with adversity off the field. Discussing the importance of enduring and learning from mistakes felt like an important moment.
Later, when addressing the stadium crowd Solo also expressed thanks for the support she has received over the past year.
A few months ago there was real doubt that Solo would be making the trip up north to represent the USA. Her play with both the USA and the Reign this Spring has been focused and solid. But, given the warmth of the response to her comments it appears her reinstatement is not simply because she is talented, there is support for the person.
Rapinoe was an accomplished storyteller
Megan Rapinoe tells great stories. The kids were rapt in their collective attention to her description of the serve to Wambaugh in 2011 and she peppers her stories with healthy doses of humor.
Recently, Pinoe passed the century cap mark for country and opened the NWSL Season with a late 15 minute hat trick at home against Western New York. A player with her experience and current form should be poised for a strong leadership role in Canada.
Reign ownership brought out USMNT, Sounder, and local legend Kasey Keller to help send off the players in the stadium in a ceremony prior to kickoff between the Reign and the China PR National Team. Between the three players on the pitch there is approaching 400 caps and 9 world cups representing the USA. For long time Seattle soccer fans the moment was a treat.
Reign FC are in good hands while Rapinoe and Solo are up in Canada. But, they can prolong their stay up there as long as is needed to bring home silverware.
Photos by Jeff Lageson
