We’ve already done a rundown of some of the best official merchandise on the FIFA Women’s World Cup online store. But, it’s fair that now we should show our favoritism and showcase some really cool branded items coming specifically from the U.S. Women’s National Team.
Through a partnership with Round21 and artist Jayson Atienza, USWNT stars like Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, Kelley O’Hara, and Crystal Dunn were able to let their personalities shine through in the form of special-edition products.
“Instead of simply using an athlete’s name or image to sell a product, we wanted to involve athletes, their story, and artists in the creative process to result in something different than what’s been known as ‘fan merch,'” Annie Mitchell-reid, director of strategic partnership and business for the USWNT Players Association, told Forbes. “We wanted to create a genuine expression of the values and identity of our membership.”
Atienza’s art heavily features mosaic style that the USWNT found represented the spirit of a team of individuals coming together.
“We wanted to create a design that would not only represent the USWNT collective as a whole, but would also highlight the diversity of the players,” Atienza told Forbes. “The team is ultimately made up of individual players, each with their diverse personalities, unique journeys, and powerful stories, all coming together to form something extraordinary.”
The line of merchandise includes items like sweatshirts, T-shirts, tank tops, headwear, a soccer ball, and, of course, a scarf.
Furthermore, the collection directly benefits the USWNT players who have been advocating for more equitable pay. Forbes reported that 8% of proceeds from the merchandise will directly go toward the USWNT Players Association.
This program takes the idea of sports memorabilia to a new level. We all find connection with our favorite players beyond just what they do on the field (or court). They feel like people we know. We know their stories. This takes the idea of sports fandom and the collective spirit of the World Cup, and makes a memorable and personal item that could simply be an easy throwaway design instead.
