Contact: Sunny Mindel/Curt Ritter 212/788-2958
"When the U.S. Women's Soccer Team battled for the World Cup two weeks ago the entire Nation was captivated by their performance," said Mayor Giuliani. "When it became apparent that the winner of the game would be determined by a shoot-out everyone watching the game, including the 90,000 fans gathered in the Rose Bowl, was on the edge of their seats. Millions of people throughout the world watched the collective courage and spirit of the team, which became evident when Goalkeeper Brianna Scurry blocked a shot in the third round of the shoot-out and was even more apparent when Brandi Chastain made the game-winning shot. Your dramatic shoot-out victory was not only a great moment for women's sports; it was a great moment for American sports.
"Your intensity as a team and your sportsmanship and teamwork on the field have influenced athletes around the world," the Mayor continued. "You have shown what it means to be 'true' athletes and I want to thank you for being such wonderful role models for young women and men throughout the world. Your efforts during this past World Cup will be remembered as one of the most memorable achievements in sports history. It's wonderful to have members of the U.S. Women's Soccer Team, the 1999 World Cup Champions, here in New York. On behalf of all New Yorkers I congratulate you and, in recognition of your memorable victory, proclaim Wednesday, July 21st, in New York City as, '1999 U.S. Women's Soccer Team World Cup Championship Day," the Mayor concluded.