'Women's Soccer Day' for Zephyr's Inaugural game

SPOKANE, Wash. - Saturday's home-opener for the Spokane Zephyr will be filled with many firsts.

It's the first time this team is hitting the pitch together and it's the first time Spokane will showcase its very own professional women's game in any sport.

Mayor Brown wanted to make the inaugural game even more special. Tuesday, she announced August 17, 2024 would be 'Women's Soccer Day' in Spokane.

What comes with shining that light on women's sports - is gratitude from the community.

"We've seen from a lot of people around just so excited for us to be here... so I think I'm just really excited to see that and feel that from the community," said Zephyr forward Taryn Ries.

The Zephyr aren't concerned about living up to fans expectations. Coach Jo Johnson said her players have been given the tools to succeed, and it's up to them to show how they've pieced it together.

"I think those first 15 minutes everyone's just going to be bussing around so I think we just need to keep a cool head," said Johnson. "Honestly it's just connecting the dots and putting pieces together."

Johnson said all the emotions will be felt on gameday as months of work have led up to this moment. She said she hopes the unity and collectiveness of her team comes out on the field Saturday.

The Zephyr take on Fort Lauderdale United at 6 p.m. Saturday August 17 at ONE Spokane Stadium.

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