CARY, N.C. — For the first time, men and women national soccer players are on an even playing field.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Soccer Federation closed two historic collective bargaining agreements that will guarantee equal pay until at least 2028.
What You Need To Know
- On Wednesday, the United States Soccer Federation agreed to terms of two historic collective bargaining agreements that will guarantee equal pay for men and women in soccer
- N.C. Courage Coach Sean Nahas says it's long overdue
- Collective bargaining agreements will guarantee equal pay until at least 2028
Spectrum News 1 talked to fans attending an N.C. Courage game Wednesday night about the agreements.
From dads to little girls, it seems most people are on board with this historic change in U.S. soccer.
“Excitement, absolute jubilation," Kathy Heggemeier said.
Heggemeier, a season ticket holder, is excited to be back at WakeMed Soccer Park, but on this day for the Courage home opener, she's more interested in what's going on off the field more so than on.
“When U.S. soccer came up with parody, men and women, I was overjoyed," Heggemeier said.
Just hours before Wednesday night's matchup against the Orlando Pride, the U.S. Soccer Federation announced that for the first time, men and women will play on an equal field.
“This is a big deal for women in soccer worldwide because other countries where women make less are going to hear about this. I'm sure they're talking about it all over Europe," Heggemeier said.
“Well, I got mixed feelings about it," John Buzzell said, sitting a couple rows away from Heggemeier.
“On the one hand, I'm glad the women are finally getting paid the same as the men, but I think I'm embarrassed that I have to explain to my two young daughters it hasn't been fair for a long time," Buzzell said.
Courage Head Coach Sean Nahas agrees and says it's all long overdue.
"This has been a long time coming. Any time you have hope, hope is something you wish will come true, now it's reality. The Women's National Team showed belief, showed they were steadfast, knew what they want and got it. [I'm] happy and excited for each and every one of them," Nahas said.
One of those Women's National Team players, Alex Morgan, will be here inside WakeMed Soccer Park Sunday.
Morgan is one of the more outspoken athletes who was advocating for equal pay.
A Courage official says they are expecting a big crowd to watch Morgan face the Courage Sunday at 2 p.m.