Mia Hamm
Mia Hamm
Mariel Margaret "Mia" Hamm-Garciaparrais a retired American professional association football player and two time olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women's World Cup winner. Hamm played many years as a forward for the United States women's national soccer team and was a founding member of the Washington Freedom. Hamm held the record for international goals, more than any other player, male or female, in the history of soccer, until 2013 when fellow American Abby Wambach scored her 159th goal to break...
NationalityAmerican
ProfessionSoccer Player
Date of Birth17 March 1972
CitySelma, AL
CountryUnited States of America
As a mother I think you often get so caught up in trying to take care of everyone else that you forget to take care of yourself. But I'm a much better wife and mother when I take the time to take care of myself.
I was this shy, introverted kid and through the game and through athletics I was able to gain a lot more confidence and express myself on the field. It is about enjoying themselves and that's what I could tell about all of these girls. They played hard, respected the game and just had fun doing it.
Many people say Im the best womens soccer player in the world. I dont think so. And because of that, someday I just might be.
To me, one of the reasons we were so successful was that we respected and cared about the game and felt the same way about each other, ... (Teammates) always understood there was a greater purpose. That the opportunity to play was extremely special, and let's try to make sure as many young girls have that opportunity.
I've enjoyed every minute of it and to be able to do it as long as I've had, I've had a lot of support from my family. The game has yet to see so much more growth.
I make a lot of mistakes, too, and I'm constantly re-evaluating how I'm doing things and trying to be better every day, whether it's as a mom or taking care of myself.
It is not sacrifice if you love what you're doing.
This is the last time I will get to play with this group of players. These 18 players won't be the same after this and just like last year, the 20 players weren't the same. Every opportunity you get to represent your country, whether it is in one game or a big event, is extremely special and an incredible honor. This tournament is no different. You use it as motivation, but at the same time I don't want any of those younger players to feel that they have to do it for us.
This is emotional, and I'm truly speechless, ... I was expecting to be a follower tomorrow night, just to go wherever I was pointed, and now I'm carrying the flag. It's a tremendous honor and I thank my fellow Olympians for thinking of me.
Sports can do so much. It's given me confidence, self-esteem, discipline, and motivation.
Many people say I'm the best women's soccer player in the world. I don't think so. And because of that, someday I just might be.
I will not let my teammates down and I will not let myself down.
I know I wouldn't be here, and all of us wouldn't be here, without certain sacrifices and certain stands that people have made -- not just women, but men stepping up and supporting what we do and how we do it.
It is more difficult to stay on top than to get there.