Sometimes a sports story comes along and slips through the net. More often than not it involves a woman who does something extraordinary, but because of the grip rugby has on this nation, no one takes much notice.
How about Rebecca Smith! She is NZ's women's soccer captain and today SHE WAS NOMINATED IN FIFA'S SHORTLIST FOR THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD!
Now forgive me if I am wrong, but this is absolutely extraordinary! We have had some great players. Wynton Rufer, the Oceania player of the century who won a UEFA cup! He and Maia Jackman have both played in Fifa All Star teams. But this is something again!
She has been named with Germany's three-time world player Birgit Prinz and Marta of Brazil, last years player of the year, the best player at the recently complete world cup and the top goal scorer for the tournament!
Sure it is 'only' women's soccer, but soccer is the nos one sport in the world! And here we have global star. So a little recognition for this effort I say! Way to go NZ soccer and way to go Rebecca Smith!
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2 comments:
Hej! I just wanted to say thanks for your support and the recognition. It's true that these kinds of awards are often not picked up or splashed on the front pages of the NZ papers for reasons you mentioned, and even though there is no need for that, it is appreciated when we athletes are acknowledged. Even though it doesn't make the blood, sweat, and tears worth it, because that is already done every time I step on the pitch, it sure does make it just a little bit sweeter. So...cheers!
Rebecca Smith
Hi Rebecca,
It is a pleasure to express my support. I have three daughters who are international lacrosse and athletics reps. We have seen how 'fringe' and women's sports are treated. What you have achieved is truly phenomenal!
Mark
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