A GREATER GOAL

This thorough history of the U.S. Women’s National Team centers on the players’ decadeslong battle with the U.S. Soccer Federation for pay equity.

Rusch tells the story chronologically and enriches her writing with clever soccer-inspired language. She uses well-cited primary and secondary research to highlight voices and stories from the racially diverse (though majority-white) group of athletes. The thrilling accounts of memorable moments on the pitch vividly contrast with the crushing realities of the team members’ unfair treatment by their employer. Though the book includes multiple perspectives and opinions, the featured narratives and examples pertaining to the team’s salary, working conditions, and more make a compelling case in favor of the women athletes. The text shows the players’ successes, letdowns, solidarity building, and resolve with depth and honesty. The team’s collective bargaining and legal processes are clarified in detail, offering important context and informing readers’ understanding beyond the world of soccer. While individual players receive the spotlight, the focus remains on the entire team’s shared risk-taking and their commitment to present and future generations of players worldwide. Rusch notes gender diversity beyond the male-female binary in passing. The broader conversations and accounts relating to gender equity and equal pay are expansive, however, encouraging readers to learn more and get involved in this global issue.

An engaging, informative, and valuable contribution to the historical record.