I love soccer, and especially the US women's national team. Mia Hamm has done so much to put their squad on the map worldwide, and it's such a shame that it's not more appreciated here.
When I watch the women's squad compete against countries like Mexico, or some of the Latin American countries, it becomes so obvious how much farther ahead the United States are in the realm of women's equality. It's not what it should be, with their salaries being uneven nationwide, but it's obvious women are treated with more respect here than anywhere else.
20 years ago, mainstream Mexicans completely frowned upon the idea of their young women playing pro soccer. Now it's gaining much more acceptance, in part by Mia Hamm being the tremendous competitor that she is. Not only is she a great athelete, but she's helped promote equality for women worldwide.
And as sad as it's going to be to see Mia go, the fate of the US women's national squad is in good hands. Abby Waumbach is far and away my favorite new player. She's aggressive, strong, and at 5'11" she's a tremendous header. And with other next-generation players like Shannon Boxx and Cat Reddick, the squad is still looking in great shape.
