North Wake News

The landscape of American soccer has undergone significant changes over the past 15 years, particularly in terms of Black representation. Eboni Christmas, a long-time fan of the sport, has observed these shifts both on and off the field.

"It is kind of a dramatic change, but for the good. These players were already here, they just weren’t getting the recognition. Now that they’re winning the United States Olympic medals and things like that. It’s been really cool to see that change. Now that it’s happened, you can’t really go back. That representation will always be there now," Christmas stated.

This increased visibility extends beyond the pitch. "As a Black fan, more Black players are being recognized and celebrated. It’s been really cool, and now more people are like, ‘I see myself’ whether it is in media or on the field or in the stands," she added.

Christmas is actively involved with supporter groups such as the American Outlaws and North Carolina FC's Oak City Supporters. She highlights efforts by Black-centered supporter groups like Rose Room Collective in Washington D.C., and Black Fires in Chicago, emphasizing their role in fostering inclusivity within soccer communities.

"They are popping up because more Black fans are getting into the sport, and they’re creating a space for themselves to be able to go to games. That’s more of what I want to see," Christmas expressed.

Younger fans like Anéssa Myers also feel this impact. A high school student and avid soccer player since moving to Raleigh in 2021, Myers recalls fewer Black players on national teams during her childhood.

"There just weren’t a ton on that National Team. It wasn’t very diverse. It’s just really important to have soccer be a place that’s diverse and for Black perspectives to be heard," Myers said.

Organizations such as the Black Women’s Player Collective play an essential role in this evolution, yet clubs must also promote inclusivity actively.

"I think having organizations like the Black Women’s Player Collective is really important... Days like [Juneteenth] are really important," Myers noted regarding initiatives by clubs like Courage.

The media landscape is evolving too with outlets like Shea Butter FC providing platforms for Black voices in soccer journalism.

"We all see the game differently... It wasn’t a traditional way of watching... Now that we have so many influential Black players showing up... it’s important to have those Black voices saying what we see as well," Christmas commented.

Shea Butter FC has grown significantly since its inception in 2020. Christmas joined during 2022-2023 seasons and has taken on managerial duties including talent recruitment and show production.

"When I came on is kind of when we started looking at ‘What does Shea Butter mean off the field as well? How can we make this better for more Black fans to get into the sport?’" she explained.

Despite progress, challenges remain for non-traditional media outlets seeking greater access within sports journalism spaces.

"On the media side, I just want better access... We’re fans of the sport first... but it’s very hard without that type of backing or trust," Christmas acknowledged.

Representation should not only be acknowledged but celebrated across all facets surrounding soccer—on fields, among supporters, and throughout related industries connected with The Beautiful Game.