I have no idea what's happening in Australia right now, but I watched every game that was shown here in USA of the Women's World Cup. There were some brilliant performances, many stellar goals, and overall a very exciting and professional tournament.

To be sure, the womens' teams of Brazil, Germany, Argentina, Nigeria etc. are not yet playing at the skill level of their male counterparts (who have been at it for decades), but the US women (who won the last World Cup against China) are a lot better than the US men!

Not only does womens' soccer (sorry, football count, but I'd say it is essential. The female players, and foremost Mia Hamm and the rest of Team USA, are role models for young girls whose value and influence cannot be overestimated in these Britney Spears-dominated times.

Did you know that girls who play sports have an 80% reduced risk of teen pregnancy?

I'm looking forward to seeing more womens' soccer in the Olympics next year.

Cheers,
Michael