‘There’s absolutely nothing holding you back’: Illinois soccer lifting up women with Empowerment Game

(WCIA) — Illinois soccer is using this weekend’s game against Maryland to celebrate women and girls.

“Often times we used to think of women that have done extremely extraordinary things that get recognized but I think as we’ve grown in society we are now able to recognize women just for being women and doing what they love,” said senior midfielder Kennedy Berschel.

A lifelong trailblazer for women in sports, head coach Janet Rayfield has seen the conversation change since her playing days. She was a member of the first-ever NCAA women’s soccer national championship team.

“If you could think about the difference between a rotary dial phone and the cell phone you’re carrying around now that’s probably how big the difference is,” said Rayfield.

At Sunday’s game, players and staff will celebrate the women who have helped them reach this point in their personal and athletic lives.

“My mom, my sisters, they’re incredibly empowered. My parents have always taught us to be strong, powerful women,” said senior midfielder Sydney Stephens.

The game starts at 2 p.m. on Sunday at Demirjian Park. Admission is free and the team will hand out bracelets with empowering messages to fans.

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