US women’s team coach Emma Hayes sees a future where soccer is America’s No. 1 sport

Emma Hayes: US Women’s Team Coach Envisions Soccer as America’s Top Sport

US women s team coach Emma – Emma Hayes, the US women’s team coach, has long believed soccer will rise as America’s premier sport. With over a decade of experience in the United States, she now leads the USWNT toward the FIFA Women’s World Cup, expressing confidence in the game’s growing dominance. “I think soccer is poised to become the number one sport in this country,” she told CNN Sports, reflecting on the transformative journey she has witnessed firsthand.

From Grassroots to Global Stage

Hayes began her career in the U.S. in 2002, coaching the amateur Lady Riders in New York. At the time, soccer was still emerging, but her return in 2008 to work with professional teams like the Chicago Red Stars and Washington Freedom marked a pivotal shift. Her current role as US women’s team coach has brought her to a new level, where she is focused on securing the team’s place in the World Cup and inspiring a broader national interest in the sport.

A Vision for Soccer’s Expansion

Hayes’ optimism stems from the game’s evolution. “This is my third time working in the country, and the changes are staggering,” she said. The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and Major League Soccer (MLS) have seen significant growth, and fan engagement has surged. “Soccer is no longer in third or fourth place,” she emphasized. “It’s now a sport that’s widely available on TV, and that’s a huge indicator of its rising status.”

Strategic Leadership and Adaptability

Hayes’ coaching philosophy centers on patience and adaptability. “Qualifying is our first goal,” she explained. “Once we reach that stage, we can think about the next steps.” This approach has served her well, particularly during her time at Chelsea, where she earned seven Women’s Super League titles in a decade. Her ability to balance long-term strategy with immediate adjustments has become a key factor in her success as US women’s team coach.

Building Relationships Beyond the Field

For Hayes, the bond between coach and player is essential. “They’re my greatest teachers,” she noted, highlighting the collaborative dynamic within the squad. As she has aged, she has learned to adapt to the changing perspectives of her athletes. “I’ve embraced their subcultures and interests,” she shared. “They’ve even gotten me out of black clothes and inspired me to dance on the touchline.” This openness reflects her commitment to fostering trust and unity among her players.

Learning from Diverse Experiences

Hayes continues to expand her expertise beyond soccer, including a brief stint in the corporate sector with Coca-Cola. “Learning from other industries is crucial for staying at the top,” she explained. Her leadership style is grounded in authenticity and consistency, qualities she believes are vital for guiding a team. “I want to be honest and genuine,” she said. “That’s how I connect with my players and ensure the team’s culture thrives.”

Hayes’ vision for soccer in America extends beyond matches and trophies. She emphasizes that the sport’s future depends on community involvement and deeper fan engagement. “The grassroots level has always had strong participation,” she said. “Now, the professional game is gaining momentum, and that’s where the real growth lies.” As the second World Cup on American soil approaches, Hayes is confident that this momentum will translate into a national passion for soccer.

Family and Humility as Pillars of Success

Despite her high-profile role as US women’s team coach, Hayes credits her family for keeping her grounded. “My son keeps me busy, and my mother keeps me rooted,” she added with a smile. This humility shapes her interactions with players, who she sees as more than just athletes. “They remind me that my work is part of something bigger,” she said. “I strive to deliver the best for them and the sport.”