
Over the next several weeks, we’ll reflect upon the incredible ways soccer can inspire, unite, and drive us toward a more inclusive and equitable world. Stay tuned as we share staff-selected books and songs, memorable Soccer Without Borders (SWB) mission moments, and more.
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Soccer is more than a game—it’s a catalyst for change, connection, and growth. Dive into a selection of unforgettable highlights from 2024, each a testament to the power of play and the passion that drives our SWB community.
Continue reading to learn more about our top soccer moments and memories from 2024–all chosen by SWB staff!
Program Manager Caitlin Silva Builds a Women-Centered Soccer Community in East Boston
“My favorite memory is training/coaching the women's group. We brought together such a diverse group with respect to soccer experience and also cultural backgrounds. I've loved my work with SWB in the past because I've loved sharing the joy with middle and high school girls, especially seeing them love the sport for the first time. I did not imagine I could have this same experience with my adult peers. It has been just as rewarding training them, seeing their excitement and competitiveness. It's a joy creating spaces for girls and women to play no matter the age or talent.”
Caitlin’s favorite soccer moment of 2024 captures the transformative power of soccer in bringing together a diverse group of women from various cultural backgrounds and levels of experience. The joy of coaching truly transcends age, as she found the same fulfillment in working with adult women as she did with younger girls. Witnessing the excitement and competitiveness of these women, many discovering a love for the sport for the first time, underscores the inclusivity and universal appeal of soccer. Creating a space where women and girls can play, regardless of age or skill, highlights the sport's ability to foster community, empowerment, and joy for all participants.
While SWB primarily serves youth, we love seeing our staff getting involved with the community and working to advance gender equity in sport, no matter the age. In fact, many of the players on this team are SWB alumni, staff, volunteers, and parents. We are so proud of Caitlin’s wonderful work and leadership both at SWB and in the community to serve girls and women of all ages!

Through the Eyes of Coach Ye-Htet, SWB Bay Area Participants Find Common Ground on the Field
“Recently, at an SWB practice, two older boys had a verbal argument about not passing the ball. At the end of practice, a handful of their teammates brought the two boys together and formed a small circle to defuse the situation. They put their arms around each other and laughed together by the end of the circle.
In all my years of working here, I have witnessed moments like this very rarely, and it was incredibly special to me.”
This story is unique as it is deeply intertwined with our SWB values and what we work to instill in our youth–it highlights a rare and powerful moment of conflict resolution and unity within an SWB youth soccer practice. After a verbal argument between two older boys about not passing the ball, their teammates took the initiative to mediate and defuse the tension. By forming a circle, bringing the boys together, and fostering a space for reconciliation, they transformed the conflict into a moment of camaraderie and laughter. Such moments underscore the profound impact that empathy, teamwork, and understanding can have in creating a supportive and harmonious environment.
SWB Assistant Director Nora Dooley’s High School Girls Team Wins the State Championship While Fostering Belonging in Wellesley, MA
“My high school girls team I volunteer coached won the state championship! Wellesley High School in MA is quickly becoming SWB supporters and donors and hopefully will be doing some exchanges with our high school girls in MA and elsewhere. An amazing group of girls, from a similar upbringing as mine, with lots of privilege, also struggle within that bubble and are just so kind to each other. The seniors created a culture of belonging without knowing it, and our coaching staff nurtured that. I genuinely believe that's why we won it all.”
Nora’s 2024 soccer highlight encapsulates a journey of triumph, unity, and cultural impact. The high school girls' team winning the state championship is not just a testament to their athletic prowess but also to the inclusive and supportive culture they have uniquely built. The high school girls fostered a sense of belonging, creating an environment where every player felt valued and connected. This culture, nurtured by the coaching staff, became the foundation of their success. Moreover, the team's evolving connection with SWB adds a layer of meaningful outreach, as they aim to support and engage with other girls through potential exchanges. This blend of athletic achievement, personal growth, and community impact makes the story both memorable and inspiring.
We are beyond proud of Coach Nora for leading this team and for creating spaces for these girls to grow. We also are proud of Coach Nora’s incredible team of players who lead with empathy, kindness, and love. You girls are our future, and our future is brighter with you all in it!
SWB Maryland Director Carson McFadden Reflects on an Incredible Year in Women’s Soccer
“Barbara Banda being voted to the NWSL Best XI, nominated for the Ballon d'Or, winning BBC Women's Footballer of the Year, as well as NWSL MVP was super cool (all on top of winning the championship!). Also, Marta's goal against KC in the semifinal was absolutely incredible. Just great soccer moments.”
These moments highlight individual brilliance and unforgettable achievements in women's soccer. Barbara Banda's recognition–including being voted to the NWSL Best XI, nominated for the Ballon d'Or, winning BBC Women's Footballer of the Year, and being named NWSL MVP–underscores her extraordinary talent and impact on the sport. Her success reflects a significant milestone for women's soccer, bringing well-deserved attention and acclaim to female athletes. Additionally, Marta's spectacular goal in the semifinal against KC stands out as a defining moment of skill and artistry, encapsulating the thrill of high-level competition. Together, these accomplishments celebrate the excellence, dedication, and memorable moments that make soccer such an exhilarating and inspiring sport.
SWB’s Executive Director Jennifer Tepper Celebrates the Spanish Women’s Team World Cup Win!
“When the Spanish Women's team won the World Cup!”
The Spanish Women's team winning the World Cup in 2024 was significant because it represented a landmark achievement in women's soccer, showcasing the growing prominence and competitiveness of the sport on a global stage. This victory was not just a triumph for Spain but a moment of inspiration for women and girls worldwide, emphasizing the progress and potential in women's sports. It also highlighted the importance of investment in women's soccer, pushing for greater recognition, equality, and support in the sport. The win symbolized a step forward in breaking down barriers, promoting gender equality in sports, and inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
The Spanish Women’s team needed grit and perseverance to overcome the countless obstacles thrown their way– making their win even more symbolic and powerful to all who follow women’s sports.
Coach Pilar from Argentina Watches Lionel Messi Play at Gillette Stadium

“My favorite soccer-related moment was definitely seeing Messi play with Inter Miami against the Revs. As an Argentinean player, you can understand why I love him, but also being able to take my sister to the game (THANK YOU SWB). Seeing the impact of him among everyone in the stadium really demonstrated the power of soccer!”
Coach Pilar, originally from Argentina, had the chance to see soccer superstar, Lionel Messi, play at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts! Not only was it her first time witnessing Lionel Messi play, she was able to watch the game alongside her sister, who was also born in Argentina. The magic of this opportunity was made possible by a generous donation made to one of our coaching staff–allowing for Coach Pilar’s dreams of seeing Messi play come true.
Coach Karla’s Mexican Team and Former Teammates Thrive in the 2024 Mexican League
“The Monterrey Team won for the third time in the Mexican league. It was important for me because I used to work closely over the course of 2 years with a player that is a member of this team. Also seeing one of my teammates where I used to play. She was the youngest when she first arrived, and today she is champion of the Mexican league.”
Coach Karla’s 2024 unforgettable soccer moment intertwines her personal connections with professional achievements. The Monterrey Team's third championship win in the Mexican league is a significant accomplishment in itself, but its importance is deepened by Karla's close relationship with one of the players. Having worked with this player for two years, witnessing her growth and success adds a personal dimension to the victory. Additionally, seeing a former teammate, who started as the youngest in the group, rise to become a champion highlights the transformative journey of perseverance, dedication, and an overwhelming level of pride. These personal ties make the team's triumph more meaningful, symbolizing the rewards of hard work and the enduring bonds formed through soccer.
>> In Case You Missed It: Stories That Move Us: Handpicked Books by SWB Staff
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