After a tough start to the 2025 NWSL season, the Chicago Stars were finally able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. After three consecutive defeats, the Illinois-based club opened their winning account in yesterday’s clash against Bay FC. It was a well-deserved victory for the Stars, and it was a game that will be remembered for a remarkable feat by one of their players.
The star of the match was none other than Chicago Stars’ goalkeeper, Alyssa Naeher. She not only put in a solid performance in between the sticks but also made a decision that will be etched in the hearts of her teammates and fans for a long time.
But before we get to that, let’s take a trip down memory lane and see how the Stars’ season has unfolded so far. The team had a rocky start to the season, with three straight losses. The players were feeling the pressure, and the fans were starting to lose hope. But the team never gave up and continued to work hard in training, determined to turn things around.
And that’s exactly what happened in their match against Bay FC. The Stars came out with a fire in their bellies and dominated the game from the first whistle. They created numerous chances but were unable to convert them into goals. However, their persistence paid off in the 60th minute when their striker, Sarah Smith, scored a brilliant goal, putting them in the lead.
The team and the fans erupted in celebration, but it was what happened next that caught everyone’s attention. As the players were congratulating Smith on her goal, Naeher quietly walked to the bench and picked up a marker. She then walked towards Smith and handed her the marker, gesturing towards the ball. It was clear what she wanted Smith to do.
Without hesitation, Smith took the marker and wrote ‘Happy Birthday, Mom!’ on the ball before raising it up in celebration. It was a beautiful moment as it was revealed that it was indeed Sarah Smith’s mother’s birthday, and she had been battling cancer. The gesture brought tears to the eyes of many, and it showed the close bond that the team shares.
Naeher’s selfless act not only made Smith’s day but also touched the hearts of everyone watching. It was also a reminder that football is not just about winning and losing, but also about the human connections and the impact we can have on each other’s lives.
But this was not the first time Naeher had shown her character and leadership on the field. In the previous games, she had been a rock at the back and had made some crucial saves to keep the team in the game. Her performance against Bay FC was no different, as she made some outstanding saves to deny the opponents.
Naeher’s actions on and off the field have not gone unnoticed, and she has been praised by her coach and teammates for her selflessness and leadership. Her teammate, Sarah Smith, said, “Alyssa is not just a great goalkeeper, but she is also an amazing human being. She always puts the team first and is a great role model.”
Coach Mark Richardson also had nothing but praise for Naeher, saying, “Alyssa is a true leader on and off the field. Her actions today were a true reflection of her character, and I couldn’t be prouder of her.”
But Naeher remains humble and gives credit to her team for their performance. “Today was a great team effort, and I am just happy we were able to get the win. Seeing Sarah’s reaction to the goal and the team’s celebration was priceless, and that’s what makes this game so special,” she said in a post-match interview.
The Chicago Stars may have had a rough start to the season, but with players like Alyssa Naeher leading the team, they are sure to bounce back stronger. Her actions on the field have not only inspired her teammates but also reminded us of the power of kindness and selflessness. As for Sarah Smith’s mother, she couldn’t have asked for a better birthday gift.
The future looks bright for the Chicago Stars, and with players like Naeher in their ranks, they are sure to see more light at the end of the tunnel. It’s not just about the wins and losses, but about the moments that make us smile and bring us together as a team. And Naeher’s gesture will be remembered as
