Throughout my time as a player, I’ve held firm to the belief that unity within the group is paramount: diverging from the locker room consensus, or questioning their values, struck a chord within me, and I would be quite punitive towards that individual.
For instance, when a teammate at Everton opted out of our Pride initiative based on his personal beliefs, I confronted him, saying, ‘You’re completely out of line. This matter transcends your individual stance.’
While others in the team shared my view, they preferred to remain silent. I, however, was always the one to voice my opinions candidly – both in private discussions and in front of the whole team.
Unifying 25 individuals on every issue is, of course, a daunting task. Yet a team resembles a family. Hence, it’s essential that we all strive towards the same goals.
Sadly, even the most accomplished teams can find themselves divided. A case in point is the USWNT, which is set to begin its Olympic journey against Zambia this Thursday.
Midfielder Korbin Albert was controversially selected for the USWNT’s Olympics roster
DailyMail.com columnist Tim Howard
After midfielder Korbin Albert expressed her anti-LGBTQ sentiment online, she faced significant backlash from fans and criticism from teammates.
Despite this, newly appointed manager Emma Hayes has chosen to support the 20-year-old by including her on the Olympic roster, a decision fraught with risks.
But is this decision justified? My perspective has shifted recently, influenced by Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes.
The Kansas City Chiefs faced a scandal this offseason when kicker Harrison Butker delivered a controversial commencement address, suggesting that one of the key roles for women should be as ‘homemakers.’
This sparked considerable controversy, placing his teammates and coaching staff in a challenging position.
I believed Butker was stepping out of line, and I would have addressed him directly had he been in my locker room. While I still hold the view that if my opinion aligns with what’s right and you disagree, I would feel let down, Mahomes and Kelce have broadened my perspective.
Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce both voiced their opinions regarding teammate Harrison Butker
The Kansas City kicker faced fierce backlash earlier this year after a commencement speech
They are influential leaders on their team, emphasizing that we exist in a world where disagreement is inevitable. However, we are still a family that aims to support each other and to understand differing viewpoints, even when we don’t share the same beliefs. This mindset is more accepting than my previous stance.
Now, I’ve come to recognize that my viewpoint isn’t the only one that holds value. It’s essential to engage in active listening and foster dialogue.
Thus, if I were part of the USWNT and Albert was sharing the locker room with me, I would adopt a more accommodating approach. I would not insist on my voice being prioritized or require a singular worldview. Observing the Chiefs handle Butker’s situation has led me to realize I had been mistaken.
Albert has expressed regret for her previous social media activity. Yet, that doesn’t inherently mean her core beliefs have shifted; she was raised with certain values that she holds dearly, and those feelings remain valid.
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder apologized for sharing anti-LGBTQ social media posts
However, her beliefs conflict with the fundamental values of the USWNT, a team that has historically championed the LGBTQ community and engaged in significant advocacy. It’s understandable how one of their own not sharing those values could feel deeply hurtful.
That would inevitably strain my relationship with such a teammate — both during practice and in matches. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to recognize an essential truth: you coexist with these individuals daily, often spending more time with them than with your family.
Thus, it falls upon Hayes and the players to establish mutual ground. This necessitates open and serious dialogues. Senior players must acknowledge their disagreements, which can be tough given the passionate nature of these discussions. Yet, it’s crucial to find a pivotal moment for reconciliation and extend an olive branch.
Fortunately, in soccer, just as in life, new challenges will arise. The USWNT will encounter further tough situations, and perhaps Albert and her teammates will find common ground in those moments. I’ve walked this path before, and I believe they will discover ways to unite again.
Albert, 20, has been booed by USWNT supporters and publicly criticized by some teammates
New United States coach Emma Hayes (pictured) ignored the noise to select Albert for Paris
While at Everton, my teammate listened to my views and respectfully chose not to participate in the Pride campaign. However, our shared commitment to the team helped us overcome those disagreements. Fans, however, have sharper memories, and it’s tough to feel compassion for Albert at this moment.
Indeed, she now bears the weight of scrutiny. Yes, she is under heightened expectations to perform. But that falls squarely on her shoulders. As athletes, we can choose whether to speak out or remain silent. However, it’s imperative to understand that taking a stand invites scrutiny and, at times, ridicule.
Hayes is acutely aware of this. She understands how selecting Albert might influence the team dynamic and culture. She knows that anything less than securing a gold medal will be viewed as a failure, and if team unity falters, her decision could be blamed. Still, she deemed it worthwhile. Hayes is a competitor who comprehends the demands of high-profile coaching roles.
It’s crucial for her to establish a clear directive in her initial major tournament. Demonstrating her readiness to make tough choices sets a precedent.
