Delve into the rise of women’s soccer in For the Win: NWSL

As women’s soccer continues its rapid rise, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has found a valuable and strategic partner in Amazon Prime Video. 

The streaming service not only broadcasts NWSL games but brings an exciting four-part docuseries that follows the intensity of the NWSL playoffs, offering a behind-the-scenes look at players, staff, and the off-field lives of the league’s brightest stars.

Directed by Marie Margolius, For the Win: NWSL kicks off with a bang. The Orlando Pride’s historic first-ever NWSL Championship win is a pivotal moment, particularly for women’s soccer legend Marta. The series then delves into the hard work, drama, and sheer determination behind the playoff push, casting a spotlight on the emerging talents making waves in the league.

In the debut episode, “Chaos League,” viewers hear from players like Lynn Biyendolo (Gotham FC), Marta (Orlando Pride), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit), and Alex Morgan (formerly San Diego Wave). Journalists like Roger Bennett (Men in Blazers Media Network), freelancer Tamerra Griffin, and NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman offer unique insights. 

One of the most jaw-dropping revelations in the series opener is that superstar Rodman, who’s been in the league for four years, is younger than some of her rookie teammates, having joined the Washington Spirit at just 18 years old.

The title “Chaos League” captures the unpredictable nature of the league. For instance, we witness North Carolina Courage dominate for years only to see them falter unexpectedly, while NJ/NY Gotham FC, after winning the championship in 2023, completely overhauled their roster with high-profile signings, including Jessica Silva from Portugal and United States Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) staples Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett. 

The series also touches on the departures of major talents like Naomi Girma, Kerolin Nicoli, and Jenna Nighswonger to Europe. Margolius, a former Harvard soccer player, is the ideal storyteller to capture the league’s incredible growth and its promising future.

Having attended Washington Spirit’s Spirit Fest recently, I can confirm that fans will be thrilled with this series. The team is prominently featured throughout the episodes, with each player contributing a unique perspective. 

The series also confronts the tough moments that shaped the league. It doesn’t shy away from the 2022 Yates Report, which exposed systemic abuse and harassment, forcing the departure of several coaches, staff members, and owners. The series addresses this scandal head on, acknowledging its impact and offering a glimpse into how the league is working to move forward. 

In another raw moment, Rodman opens up about her relationship with her father in a touching conversation with her mother, reflecting on her rise in the sport and the constant support she’s received from her family.

Fans of NWSL and sports documentaries alike will appreciate the fresh faces introduced in this series. While stars like Rodman and Biyendolo are well known, the series also highlights up-and-coming players who are poised to make their mark. 

Chicago’s Ally Schlegel and North Carolina Courage’s Meredith Speck and Denise O’Sullivan share their thoughts on the challenges their teams face. One of the most fascinating stories comes from Orlando Pride’s Kylie Strom, who discusses her unconventional journey to the NWSL — an inspiring tale that epitomizes the league’s rise.

For the Win also provides a rare glimpse into the league’s financial growth. Kansas City Current owners Brittany Mahomes and Angie Long discuss the transformation of women’s soccer’s value, particularly the construction of the country’s first women’s soccer stadium. 

USWNT icons Abby Dahlkemper and Brandi Chastain discuss the significance of the San Francisco Bay Area’s inaugural NWSL franchise, and Gotham FC minority owner Eli Manning reflects on his decision to invest in women’s soccer and how his kids are more excited about NWSL games than the NFL.

The series truly gives players a platform to share their personal stories, making For the Win a compelling and insightful watch for both new and longtime fans of the NWSL. With a balanced mix of established stars and rising talents, the series is a celebration of the league’s journey, its challenges, and its exciting future.

For the Win: NWSL premiered on Amazon Prime Video on March 6. I highly recommend it and give it a 9.5 out of 10. It was so compelling, I didn’t want it to end. 

Even if you’re not typically a fan of women’s soccer, if you enjoy sports documentaries, you’ll find this one a must-watch. The series beautifully captures the essence of teamwork, competition, and personal growth.