Champions on display at Women’s World Cup

Like many Canadians, I’ve been watching the FIFA Women’s World Cup over the past few weeks. As it’s worked its way around the country I’ve found it to be super energizing. These athletes are fierce.

Last week I wrote about the importance of team, even within a seemingly individual sport such as running. I wrote about the hard work, commitment and dedication it takes to compete at a high level of sport. The women of the World Cup have put this on display — and last night’s final match between the USA and Japan was no exception.

Although it’s too bad Canada wasn’t in it, I got a real kick out of watching the US play. This team embodies the characteristics of a champion.

WE … together #USWNT23 and #BestFansInTheWorld are World Cup Champions. #OneNationOneTeam pic.twitter.com/6pa6V4FdgG

— U.S. Soccer WNT (@ussoccer_wnt) July 6, 2015

Although they get criticized for being cocky at times – and, yes, there have been some moments in the past where individual players have acted out — I don’t believe it is the norm for this team. I think a lot of what gets called arrogance is confidence, enthusiasm and passion.

The competitive spirit, focus, skill, drive and technical precision this team brings to the field, and the way they work so tightly as a unit is a testament to what hard work builds. Both as a team and as individuals, the time these athletes put into getting the absolute best out of themselves is an example for any athlete competing in any sport.

What I see when I watch the US women’s team play is a team whose hearts are invested and lives dedicated to their sport. This particular team is fortunate to have a load of funding that allows them to train year-round without taking on other jobs, a major factor that can’t be overlooked. These athletes are set up to succeed.

They’ve also earned their way there — they’ve busted their butts to make the US team. This would have taken tremendous physical and mental discipline along the way — pounding out the hard workouts, containing the highs, bouncing back from the lows and making sacrifices in other parts of life, but one of the attributes which makes an elite athlete special is that sacrifice doesn’t necessarily feel as such.

I’ve been there as a hockey player. The focus, energy and time that goes into competing with the best certainly does take adjustments to life, but it doesn’t feel like a loss. Any so-called sacrifice pales in comparison to the joy that comes with finding the best in yourself.

And joy is exactly what I saw on the faces of the American players on Sunday evening, not only in their celebrations, but also in the determination and energy they displayed on the field. Congratulations to all the athletes who competed in 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Thanks for the fun!