LIFE

Did you know it's a World Cup summer? Whether you've been waiting all year for this or are just getting the memo, you're in for a real treat.

The Women's World Cup kicked off on July 20 and is taking place in Australia and New Zealand this year. It features 32 talented teams from around the globe and is sure to be a competition you won't want to miss.

And being that the tournament only takes place once every four years, we think it's worth celebrating with a little extra grandeur. Keep reading to find out how to make this your best Soccer Girl Summer yet.

1. Make soccer-themed pancake art

Since the tournament is taking place in Australia and New Zealand this year, the time difference means that most games will be airing early in the morning in the United States. Which also means that you're going to need some breakfast while you watch. Why not keep the meal totally on theme with some soccer-inspired pancakes? They're fun to make, they're super tasty and they might be just what you need to get out of bed in time for kickoff.

2. Host a watch party

Whether you're waking up early for game day pancakes or hitting snooze and watching the replay (DW—your secret's safe with us), a big sporting event like this deserves a party. (Think: Super Bowl, but better.) Invite your entire team to catch a big rivalry together or gather your fam for the final. Whatever you do, don't be afraid to go all out. Stock up on soccer streamers, lanterns and confetti and deck your house from floor to ceiling. A replica of the World Cup trophy on display wouldn't hurt, too.

3. Collect the stickers

@paniniamerica

All the biggest soccer fans know the famous Panini brand stickers. Every World Cup, a new batch of stickers is released featuring 20 players from each of the 32 teams participating. You can buy a pack of five random stickers here and purchase the blank sticker book here. Your challenge is to collect them all and fill up the entire book by the end of the tournament. (Pssst: the best way to accomplish this is to trade your duplicates with friends!)

4. Try foods from around the world

One of the things that makes the World Cup special is that it's a global event. 32 different nations are coming together for a whole month to compete in the tournament and millions of people around the world will be watching. Take this time to celebrate the different types of delicious cuisine the world has to offer. Pho from the Vietnamese restaurant downtown for dinner on Saturday and South African malva pudding for dessert on Sunday? Yum. 

5. Join a rec league

@legionsoflegacy

If you're going to be watching any World Cup games this summer, you're going to be seeing a lot of inspiring athletes doing their thing. We wouldn't be surprised if it motivates you to get out on the field too. So channel your inner Alex Morgan and show off your skills in a rec league. Even if you've never played before, there are many non-competitive, "just for fun" clubs you can join. And if nothing else, you can always bring your own ball to a nearby park and recreate your fave World Cup moments with your crew.

6. Get reading

You might be surprised by just how many professional soccer players have also written books. Former USWNT captain, Carli Lloyd, wrote a book titled "When Nobody Was Watching," which discusses the hard work and dedication that it takes to be successful, even when others are doubting you. Current U.S. players Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe and Julie Ertz also have books out describing their own journeys to soccer stardom. Pick one for this summer and add the rest to your TBR!

7. Attend an NWSL game

@nwsl

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is the top women's soccer league in the United States. When players aren't with their national teams for a major tournament, this is where you can find a lot of them. There are currently 12 teams spanning the United States from coast to coast, who compete March-November. Look into which team is closest to you and score tickets for an upcoming match. Going to an NWSL game is a great way to see your fave athletes IRL and support women's sports in the U.S.

8. Rewatch your fave soccer films

You know them and you love them—some of our fave teen movies just so happen to be soccer-centered. Break out the old DVDs and get ready for a laugh. We recommend Switching Goals starring Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Bend it Like Beckham featuring Keira Knightley, and She's the Man with Amanda Bynes, of course.

Check out these links for more summer fun:

☀️ How to have a Belly Conklin summer
☀️ The lazy girl's guide to a productive summer day
☀️ How to *really* tackle your summer fitness goals

Share your World Cup celebrations with us @girlslifemag!

Top image: @nwsl

by Melanie Dowling | 7/21/2023