The Ministry of Defence
Dearest Internet,
For years, Steph Labbe has been one of the top goalkeepers in women's soccer. A member of the Canadian national team, she has won an Olympic gold medal as part of a women’s program that set the foundations to what has become of soccer (*ahem* “football”) in this country. The ascension of the women’s team and now with the men’s team going to the World Cup in Qatar, it is my belief that we are seeing a sleeping giant finally wake up.
A few months ago, Steph Labbe retired from professional soccer. Dubbed the minister of defence, she has used her platform to raise awareness on the lack of professional sport for women in Canada. In an interview with The Globe and Mail, she said: "There's this narrative that women's sports aren't as good as men's, and it's just not true. We have the same dedication, the same commitment, the same love for the game. And I think if given the opportunity, we could really grow the game and take it to new heights." Steph is right - women's sports are just as exciting and competitive as men's sports, but they often don't receive the same level of respect.
Women's sports are on the rise like never before. In the last few years, we've seen a surge in popularity and investment in women's athletics. From the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team's World Cup success and pay equality to Serena Williams' record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam win, female athletes are dominating the headlines and inspiring a new generation of young girls (see my previous sketch blog about why role models matter). This growth is being driven by increased media coverage, sponsorship opportunities, and investment from both private and public entities. As more people begin to recognize the value of women's sports, we are seeing unprecedented growth in both participation and spectatorship. This is a pivotal moment for the future of women's sports, and it is essential that we continue to support this important movement.
I love sport and all that it can bring from the amateur level upward. I want to see this level of success achieved here in Canada too. As a life-long sports fan, I’m eager to see the Canadian women’s game reach its potential through domestic play that fosters homegrown talent. We lose so many players to competitive leagues outside of our borders, which is why Labbe’s work off the field is so vital to the emergence and longevity of Canadian soccer.
Steph has been a vocal advocate for the advancement of women's soccer in this country, and her retirement will be a great loss on the field but a continued win off it. We can take comfort in knowing that she will continue to be an outspoken champion for the game she loves, and I wish her all the best in her future endeavours. Thank you, Minister of Defense Steph Labbe, for everything.
-E.H.
Bonus content!
There is some value in Steph’s story about mental health in this video from 7 mins onward.
