Women's Soccer Forever Stamp 2023
Released coinciding with the kickoff of the 2023 SheBelieves Cup, this stamp celebrates the vibrant tapestry of women's soccer across the United States.
Purpose behind the stamp: Crafted to honor the spectrum of women's soccer in the U.S., from grassroots levels to the reigning champions, the U.S. Women's National Team.
Design insight: Featuring an original illustration by the late artist Noah MacMillan (1988-2022), the stamp depicts a female soccer player executing a dynamic side volley. Its patriotic red, white, and blue hues evoke the spirit of the American flag and underscore the sport's profound resonance in the nation.
First Day City: The stamp's inaugural ceremony unfolded in Orlando, Florida, hosted at the Exploria Stadium. It marked the commencement of the SheBelieves Cup, spanning February 16-22, 2023, across venues in Orlando, Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; and Frisco, Texas.
Historical significance: While women's involvement in soccer traces back to its inception, establishing professional clubs and institutions encountered significant hurdles. Opposition such as the Football Association's stance against female participation stifled progress for decades. Yet, milestones like the formation of the first U.S. women's international soccer team for the 1985 Mundialito tournament signaled a turning tide. With luminaries like Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy emerging, the U.S. claimed victory in the inaugural Women's World Cup in 1991, sparking a legacy of excellence. The issuance of the 2023 Forever stamp commemorates this rich history, timed perfectly for the excitement of the upcoming 2023 Women's World Cup, uniting fans nationwide in celebrating these remarkable athletes.
