SACRAMENTO — It’s the first women’s match on Bonney Field, but Sacramento is no stranger to women’s soccer.
Nor is it any stranger to women’s soccer legend Brandi Chastain, who’s played here on-and-off, through much of her career.
“I had to drive four to five hours to play in a 90 minute game,” Chastain said. “And I did so happily because it was a great place to play.”
Chastain and Brazilian ace Sissi took the pitch tonight as part of a double header with Sac Republic FC. Their goal: to inspire a new generation of players and fans.
“Here in the U.S., it was really women’s soccer that paved the way,” Republic FC spokeswoman Erica Bjork said. “It was the women’s world team and athletes such as Brandi that drew thousands, record numbers, long before MLS was ever in existence.”
MLS continues to be the goal for Sacramento Republic FC, and the extra star power today is helping to cement a love of the sport in a whole new generation of fans.
“That generation will always think that soccer is an American sport. And that’s really been the evolution of soccer in this country,” Chastain said.
Sacramento’s fan base has already proved its enthusiasm, setting attendance records at Sac Republic FC’s games.
“This is a great hot bed for soccer, and it will be a great MLS team in the future,” Chastain said.
