Conclusion

In conclusion, data relating to popularity and success of soccer in America, suggests that the implications and impact that the respective national’s teams had on the growth of soccer in America and opportunities for female athletes are highly significant. In particular the 1991,1994, and 1999 World Cup’s sparked the growth of excitement, participation and success for youth soccer players, both male and female athletes. Trinity responded to these trends in a particularly notable manner, hiring full time coaches, increasing student popularity, dominating Division 3 soccer, and receiving increased funding for the soccer program and for female athletics in general. Had it not been for the success of the National Teams during a crucial time period for the game of soccer, who knows where this beautiful game would be at Trinity, and how that may have limited female athletic participation for the next generations to follow.