American legend credits Betsy Ross as the seamstress of the first American flag and presenting it to General George Washington in 1776. A year later on June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress would pass the Flag Resolution to establish the first standards for official U.S. flags. This week America celebrates this historical event with National Flag Week as citizens are urged to fly Old Glory.
While the accuracy of the Betsy Ross story is debated, some level of her involvement is probable. She has been promoted as a model of the contributions of patriotic women in the American Revolution, and it is fitting that 45 more women will begin their trek into American history this week.
The first-ever U.S. Women's National Team in American football, assembled by USA Football and the Independent Women's Football League (IWFL), will arrive on Saturday (June 19) for training camp in Austin, Texas. Five days later they will depart for Stockholm, Sweden, for the inaugural International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Women's World Championship.
"I am really excited that for the first time in history, the United States of America has the opportunity to compete on the world stage of women's football!" said Donna Wilkinson, a tight end for the IWFL's D.C. Divas and a member of Team USA.
As American flags fly on homes and buildings and parades run down some cities' streets this week, Wilkinson and her teammates look forward to wearing the "Red, White and Blue" flag on their Team USA uniforms.
"Ever since I was a young athlete, I have dreamed of wearing a USA jersey," Los Angeles Amazons wide receiver Brittany Reinbolt said. "Competing for Team USA and representing this country will truly be a lifelong dream come true."
This dream is one echoed by other members of Team USA.
"To be able to represent my country, playing the sport that I love will be a dream come true," Boston Militia running back Mia Brickhouse said. "It is an honor to be thought of as an ambassador for Team USA and women's tackle football."
For a few, the experience won't be their first time representing their country. The roster is full of athletes who played football and other sports as youth, in high school and during college. Some of them have even played on other national teams.
Jennifer Welter, who plays linebacker for the Dallas Diamonds, is a nine-year veteran of professional women's football and six-time All-Star. In addition to her accomplished football career, Welter played rugby at Boston College and was recruited for the U-23 national team.
"I cannot think of anything I would rather do than to represent the United States in international level competition," Welter said. "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to take my football career to the highest level as a member of Team USA."
Just as Betsy Ross played her role in American history, Team USA's 45 women are ready for theirs in upholding the tradition and values that our country and flag represent. And if all goes well in Sweden, this foundation of women won't only get to wear the American flag - they'll get the chance to raise it in celebration.
