How Soccer Moms Successfully Juggle Parenthood and Soccer

At the Women’s World Cup, many star players are also moms, balancing their soccer careers with parenthood. Alex Morgan, a prominent player, even Facetimed her young daughter during a press conference.

Players like Morgan, Katrina Gorry, and Cheyna Matthews are changing the perception of what it means to be a “soccer mom.” They are proving that they can excel on the field while being devoted parents.

Morgan’s three-year-old daughter, Charlie, joined her at the tournament, and Morgan reflects on how being a mom has made her more patient and appreciative of the support she receives. The US team has three moms, including Morgan, Crystal Dunn, and Julie Ertz, who have benefited from improved support for mothers at the World Cup. Both men and women now have access to subsidized child care at tournaments.

FIFA introduced rules in 2020 to protect women players who become parents, including mandatory maternity leave and continued pay. Although some players bring their kids to the tournament, others choose to leave them at home and have a support system in place.

Players like Gorry, who underwent IVF treatments before giving birth to her daughter Harper, are proving that motherhood does not hinder their competitive spirit on the field. These soccer moms are breaking barriers and inspiring others with their achievements. The Women’s World Cup celebrates their success and highlights the importance of supporting mothers in sports.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Indian Express