After Gotham FC’s thrilling 2-1 victory over Seattle Reign in San Diego to claim the 2023 NWSL Championship trophy, a historic moment was set in motion. Gotham owner Carolyn Tisch Blodgett and NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman shared a vision: to have the team celebrated at the White House, a first for any NWSL champion.
The Inspiration Behind the White House Visit
The idea to celebrate Gotham FC’s victory at the White House was born out of a tradition long held in American sports: champions visit the White House. Berman, reflecting on the moment that sparked the initiative, recalled, “I assumed that our league champions get recognized by the White House like all other champions do in this country. And I learned that that is not assumed.”
This assumption led to years of efforts to secure the recognition, which finally came to fruition with Gotham’s 2023 championship win. As Berman and Tisch Blodgett discussed the possibility on the field after Gotham’s victory, they realized this was an opportunity that needed to be seized.
The Road to the White House
Bringing the idea to reality was no easy task. Berman, who took over as NWSL commissioner in March 2022, worked closely with Tisch Blodgett and Gotham’s ownership to make the White House visit happen. Tisch Blodgett, leveraging her connections, played a crucial role in pushing the initiative forward.
Berman emphasized the significance of this achievement, noting, “I also think it’s the right time. Because it’s clear that women’s sports has arrived as being culturally relevant.” The effort to have Gotham FC honored at the White House was not just about celebrating a championship but also about affirming the legitimacy and cultural importance of women’s sports in the United States.
A Historic First for the NWSL
Before this week, no NWSL champion had ever been honored at the White House. Gotham FC’s visit marked a historic milestone for the league and women’s sports as a whole. Speaking just outside the White House moments after President Joe Biden honored Gotham FC, Berman expressed her joy at the outcome, stating, “I think it’s fair to say that this has been on the to-do list for many, many years.”
This recognition is a powerful statement, signaling that women’s sports deserve the same respect and recognition as men’s sports. It’s a validation of the hard work, talent, and dedication of the athletes who have elevated the NWSL to new heights.
Gotham FC’s visit to the White House following their 2023 NWSL Championship win is more than just a celebration of a single victory. It represents a significant step forward in the recognition and validation of women’s sports. Thanks to the efforts of Jessica Berman, Carolyn Tisch Blodgett, and Gotham’s ownership, the NWSL has taken its place alongside other major American sports leagues in receiving this prestigious honor. As women’s sports continue to gain cultural relevance, this historic moment serves as a testament to their growing impact on the world of sports.