By Charlie Dichter
KidScoop Media
Correspondent, age 15
On March 30th I went to the Angel City FC (ACFC) women’s soccer game against the Seattle Reign FC at BMO Stadium with KidScoop Media. Before the game, I attended a press conference and had the opportunity to speak with Emma Hayes, the United States Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) head coach and the author of A Completely Different Game.
This was her first time at an ACFC game as well as mine. I asked Emma if the youth of their team would affect them in any way during their match against Brazil on April 5th. She stated that it gives them more options, her team has high potential and how more experience is necessary. When we were inside the actual stadium, I was astonished.
As someone who plays soccer at AYSO and at my school, the difference between my level and pro level was so insane. The field was huge and the crowd went WILD, waving flags and even playing drums.
The ACFC defense was so impressive, especially how they took space when necessary, and were aware of their surroundings. Riley Tiernan, # 33, headed the ball into the goal with an assist from Claire Emslie, # 10. Their coordination was so impressive and everything fit into place so beautifully. ACFC won, 2-1, and the game was close almost the entire time, which made it immensely fun to watch.
After the game, I got the chance to speak with Riley Tiernan and Kennedy Fuller, # 17at the post game press conference I asked for their opinion on how the youth of their team affected their match, and they responded by talking about how intimidating it was at first. Kennedy spoke about bouncing ideas off of each other and how communication is key. Riley, being one of the rookies on the team, talked about switching from college to pro and how that experience was for her.
She talked about how much more aggressive pro players can be. After their interview I was able to speak with the interim head coach, Sam Laity. He spoke about how important it is to be there for the team, especially the younger players. He said “When ____ hits the fan and a person makes a mistake, you’ve gotta be there for them.”
Overall, this was a learning experience for me, and what an experience. The game was incredible and the energy was high constantly. I loved it and will definitely be going back!