Durham Reporter

The American soccer scene has undergone significant changes over the past 15 years, according to long-time fan Eboni Christmas. During this period, Black players have gained more prominence and recognition for their achievements.

“It is kind of a dramatic change, but for the good. These players were already here, they just weren’t getting the recognition. Now that they’re winning the United States Olympic medals and things like that. It’s been really cool to see that change. Now that it’s happened, you can’t really go back. That representation will always be there now,” said Christmas.

This increased representation extends beyond the field as well.

“As a Black fan, more Black players are being recognized and celebrated. It’s been really cool, and now more people are like, ‘I see myself’ whether it is in media or on the field or in the stands,” she added.

Christmas is involved with supporter groups such as the American Outlaws and North Carolina FC’s Oak City Supporters. She acknowledges the efforts of Black-centered supporter groups like Rose Room Collective in Washington, D.C., and Black Fires in Chicago.

“They are popping up because more Black fans are getting into the sport, and they’re creating a space for themselves to be able to go to games. That’s more of what I want to see," Christmas stated.

Anéssa Myers, a high school student who plays soccer and follows NC Courage since moving to Raleigh in 2021, noted her early experiences with diversity in soccer teams.

“There just weren’t a ton on that National Team. It wasn’t very diverse. It’s just really important to have soccer be a place that’s diverse and for Black perspectives to be heard,” Myers said.

Organizations like the Black Women’s Player Collective play an essential role in fostering growth within the sport by promoting inclusivity at club levels through events such as Juneteenth celebrations.

“I think having organizations like the Black Women’s Player Collective is really important... I think the Courage, with those kinds of campaigns, have done really well and been great at being inclusive,” Myers commented.

Shea Butter FC is one media outlet providing space for Black voices within soccer coverage. Both Christmas and Myers contribute to this platform aimed at telling unique stories from different perspectives.

“We all see the game differently... Now that we have so many influential Black players showing up... it’s important to have those Black voices saying what we see as well," said Christmas.

Since its inception in 2020, Shea Butter FC has grown into an influential part of NWSL media landscape with expanded opportunities including work during NWSL Skills Competition ahead of last year’s championship along with interviews conducted during inaugural NWSL media day held January earlier this year..

“On media side I just want better access... That trust is very hard when you’re independent media... That’s where support from outside comes,” expressed Christmas regarding challenges faced by less traditional outlets gaining prominence within sports journalism sector..

Representation diversity inclusion aren’t mere acknowledgments but integral aspects shaping modern-day Soccer encapsulating spirit Beautiful Game across fields stands surrounding areas globally..