Everyone is so interested in what has happened the last 10 years,and I know why. The 1999 women’s world cup was an AMAZING event,seen by millions of people around the world. Tens of thousands of people joined together in non-traditional soccer stadiums to celebrate health, competition, patriotism (ours and others) and women’s soccer. I never could have dreamed up a better scenario on the play ground, and in fact I didn’t. I never saw myself playing soccer in the Olympic Games or World Cups. I saw myself hitting homers over my neighbors house in street baseball, running a down and out pattern past the Hammond’s car for a winning touchdown, or imagining climbing a high mountain while sitting at the top of my tree in the front yard. BUT NEVER, EVER did I see myself playing on a team with talented, intelligent, hysterical, strong, compassionate and competitive women. That wasn’t my reality. So if my subject doesn’t seem to be what you thought, I’m sorry. No reminiscing because there are so many NEW things to dream of these days, thanks to the 1999 World Cup. The happiness of my sons and husband, success of BAWSI, expansion and domination of Brandisworld.com, FC Gold Pride’s elevation into the playoffs, SCU women’s soccer team’s rise back into prominence, my golf game going into the single digits, intense love for my friends old/new, new job opportunities to attempt, and the list goes on and on. Looking back for me is really a view into the future. I am HOPEFUL for a decade of success on the field for WPS, for what it can give to young people and families off the field. This field of dreams facilitates imagination and exploration. I know that what I learned on the field; leadership, assist making, goal scoring, bench warming, pool player, rehab specialist, and water conveyer has prepared me for ANY door that has been left slightly ajar. It’s not that I will excel at any of them, but stepping up to that penalty kick against Gao Hong and China for the championship allowed me to face uncertainty and come out victorious. I am not afraid to make a mistake. I have tripped, shanked and whiffed too many #@%*! to be worried about that. I am ENERGIZED about having the opportunity to fall down, swing and miss, and face plant in the mud. I am a competitor and I value the challenge. Everybody knows that times are tough. There seem to be more questions out there than answers. BUT, we call upon all to make a difference to close the gap on finding the solutions. I want to continue in the same direction as the ‘99 team by setting goals, giving honest effort and dedication to community and team. 1999 was a remarkable time, one that we will never see again, but I am looking forward to what we can achieve with the experience of the ‘99 World Cup in our back pocket. There is much more fun on the HORIZON.
Cheers,
Brandi
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Well said Brandi,and Happy Anniversary! and I never imagined myself watching women play soccer before,though my wife Maria teresa, was “glued” to Channel 7 to see the Women’s World Cup games. One day i sat down with her to watch out of picking any mistakes the women players could make and laugh it out. But I the type of game skills i saw inpressed me so much to make me a fan too. I though only the guys could master those great skills. But You, Mia Hamm, And Lilly,could move and pass and best of all,score amazing goals,that I have to compete with my wife for the remote control. I hope your children will love the sport too.
Posted: 07/11/2009 @ 10:14
It seems just like yesterday we were in that stadium, all the anticipation, all the excitement and the amazing soccer game that everyone watched unfold. Happy Anniversary to you and all your teammates! What you all achieved that summer will continue to have a ripple affect in girls and sports for many years to come. Brandi you have always had a drive and a passion for every endeavor you have taken on. You learn from your mistakes and constantly challenge yourself to improve. I’m so glad you look forward to what’s next on the horizon, you are truly a champion! We love you!
Posted: 07/11/2009 @ 9:59
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