Women's Soccer

Sunday, the Western New York Flash and the Portland Thorns looked to move to the NWSL final. From the very beginning the match was highly amusing, and worthy of the 20,086 rowdy fans at Providence Park.  

Throughout the game the two teams proved women’s soccer is just as exciting and suspenseful as men’s soccer. Both sides recorded 17 shots each. The Flash took the lead in the 16th minute after a throw-in eventually led to Samantha Mewis' foot at the top of the 18. 

Hope Solo no longer has to worry about her shoulder issues. The goalkeeper for the U.S. Women’s National team is currently on a six-month suspension from the team, which gave her time to have much-needed shoulder surgery, which took place this past Tuesday. 

“For the first time in years, I can raise my right arm above my head,”  Solo said in a post on Instagram. “I’m filled with excitement knowing how life-changing this is and I look forward to coming back healthier and stronger than ever.”

It took more time than a normal game, but the Washington Spirit finished off the Chicago Red Stars in the 111th minute and earned a berth in the 2016 NWSL final.

Ali Krieger opened the scoring in the 36th minute.

GOAL! Ali Krieger finishes with a driving header to put the Washington Spirit ahead, 1-0. #WASvCHI #NWSL https://t.co/nJDDnMOApR

We've reached 2016 NWSL postseason, and we already know a new champion will be crowned. Before the playoffs kick-off this weekend it is important to remember that no professional women’s league has survived past a third season. So, as the NWSL gets ready to celebrate this year’s best teams, there is an overarching sense of pride closing out year four. 

When one wants something more than anything in the world, one has to make sacrifices. This is especially the case for professional athletes.

The American women’s game has been on a roller coaster of a ride over the last 14 months. From winning the World Cup to individual player scandal; failing to win an Olympic gold for a record fourth time to successfully completing a fourth season of league play for the first time. 

While all of that is happening at the highest level, the NWSL’s Seattle Reign and U.S. Soccer are quietly working to build the next generation of league and USWNT stars. 

After Abby Wambach was pulled over and arrested for driving under the influence of intoxicants in Portland, Oregon on April 2, 2016, she took full responsibility for her actions.

In a recent interview, Wambach admitted to abusing alcohol and prescription drugs during her soccer career.