Youth Soccer Fueled By World Cup Success

It doesn’t take much in some cases to comprehend the admiration, inspiration and drive that professional athletes bring to youth sports.

In the case of youth soccer player Hannah Lundberg’s hair, which mimics that of United States women’s soccer superstar Abby Wambach, the effect of a “role model” is obvious.

Lundberg and the Under-16 Class 1 Dublin Hurricanes team she plays for represent a miniscule portion of young Americans who have been captivated by the soccer team's performance in the 2011 Women’s World Cup.

Despite a nail-biting loss to the Japanese in the final, the United States team captured the attention of a whole nation and demonstrated a  “never give up attitude” and unmatched dedication.

“Girls are starting to find some heroes out there and there’s been some visibility around the players, they can see the game being played at the highest level and I think that’s just fantastic,” said Scott Schoenthal, head coach of the Hurricanes. 

Wambach’s equalizer in the 121st minute of the Americans’ quarterfinal win against Brazil exemplified a lesson not always taught in youth sports.

“The U.S. has a style of play that they use and that doesn’t necessarily translate to every team, but I think underlying their style which has been a level of heart, courage and determination translates very well to youth sports and in particular girls’ soccer,” said Schoenthal. 

The American mentality has helped managed to breed some of the best female soccer players in the world, which has been backed up by appearances in three of the past six World Cup finals.

A youth player on Dublin’s oldest competitive team, Lundberg understands the importance of her role models and the reasons they help young girls aspire to become professional players.

“It makes you think, I can be the one, I can grow up and be a soccer player,” said Lundberg. “In the last few minutes they don’t give up. Even if they're tired, they don't give up."