1999: THE U.S. WOMEN'S NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM
By Lacey Shin
1999
The final Women’s World Cup of the century launched the beginning a new era of success for women’s soccer. For the first time, the tournament was expanded to 16 teams and was staged in huge stadiums across the host country, raising expectations for attendance, media coverage and television audiences; expectations which were reached, surpassed and then crushed.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The final Women’s World Cup of the century launched the beginning a new era of success for women’s soccer. For the first time, the tournament was expanded to 16 teams and was staged in huge stadiums across the host country, raising expectations for attendance, media coverage and television audiences; expectations which were reached, surpassed and then crushed.
ROSTER
Cindy Parlow Midfielder
Michelle Akers Midfielder
Brandi Chastain Defender
Joy Fawcett Defender
Julie Foudy Midfielder
Kate Sobrero Markgraf Defender
Mia Hamm Forward
Saskia Webber Goalkeeper
Kristine Lilly Forward
Lorrie Fair Allen Defender
Christie Pearce Rampone Defender
Tish Venturini Hoch Midfielder
Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak Midfielder
Briana Scurry Goalkeeper
Shannon MacMillan Forward
Danielle Fotopoulos Forward
Tracy Noonan Goalkeeper
Sara Whalen Hess Defender