The United States Soccer Federation has announced that Michelle Kang has pledged $30 million to support women’s and girl’s teams in the country over the next five years, Afrosport reports.
Kang, who is the owner of NWSL side Washington Spirit, is known for her philanthropic efforts in women’s sports in America having donated $4 million to the US Women’s Rugby Sevens team back in July.
Her $30 million pledge to US Soccer is the largest contribution made towards women’s football for which she wants to see standards being raised.
“Women’s sports have been undervalued and overlooked for far too long,” Kang told the US Soccer website. “I am committed to raising the standard of excellence in women’s soccer — both on and off the pitch — by delivering the resources female athletes need to reach their full potential and surround them with the professional support they deserve. I hope this investment serves as ‘seed capital’ and spurs other donors to follow suit.”
Meanwhile, US Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone reacting to the donation said: “Michele Kang’s gift will transform soccer for women and girls in the United States.
“It will impact generations of women and girls in our game, including players, coaches, and referees. I know firsthand the power soccer can have in someone’s life and thanks to Michele, we will be able to provide more support and opportunities for women and girls.”
Olympic-winning coach Emma Heyes also stated: “I believe a gift like this will change the trajectory of the sport. We’re in a pivotal moment for soccer in the U.S. and this will help us support more female players, coaches and referees in the game.”
Michele Kang’s generous and historic donation will further U.S. Soccer’s work in service to women’s soccer programs at all levels and in all capacities – on and off the pitch.
The investment from Kang will provide resources to impact generations of young female athletes.
— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) November 19, 2024
Michelle Kang is also the owner of French giants Olympique Lyon Feminin and Women’s Championship side London City Lionesses.
Her donation will double the number of US national team camps and will also provide more development opportunities, including education and mentorship to an additional 70,000 female coaches and referees.
