How important is it for there to be positive female role models for kids?
I think it is equally important for there to be positive female and positive male role models, but I think it’s a mater of visibility and access. There aren’t as many for the girls yet, and whether it be sports, politics, education, we need strong women on a local and national stage so that girls are exposed to all the amazing possibilities for them to succeed. The Independence players are talented, beautiful, strong women who have chased a dream, made healthy choices, and embraced their gifts. They are putting an approachable, can-do spirit out there that young girls can connect with, and even though everyone won’t necessarily be a soccer star, these players are examples of what can happen when you work hard and go for it. Any parting advice? Lead with your gifts and leave the world a little bit better than you found it. This team and organization seem to embody the spirit of that philosophy, and besides from being a ton of fun, the Independence really is a great thing for this commun