By OkayGoal 
Whether you wear the armband or just want to lead by example, being a team captain is about more than just the title. The best captains in the NWSL, such as Alyssa Naeher, Marta, Sarah Gorden, and Angelina Anderson, demonstrate that leadership is about showing up, speaking up, and lifting others up on and off the pitch.
Here are seven ways captains inspire their teams on and off the field.
Lead with Energy
Your attitude sets the tone. A captain who can hustle and bring the hype on game day helps not just the physical game, but the mental game of the entire team. If you bring the energy, the rest of the team will follow.
Former interim Angel City coach Sam Laity said of Angel City FC co-captain Sarah Gorden, “Sarah is a leader because of her grit, leading by example, camaraderie, trust. When things get difficult, she’s one of the players that stands up.”
Tip: Start warmups with your favorite pump-up song or get your team to create a pregame hype circle.
Model Accountability
Everyone makes mistakes. A good captain owns their mistakes, apologizes when needed, and continues to grow. By modeling humility and responsibility, you create a safe space for everyone else to do the same.
Alyssa Naeher said, “leadership isn’t shouting orders; it’s inspiring confidence in silence.”
Tip: If you miss a mark in a game, acknowledge it and move on. Captains can inspire teams through accountability, not blame.
Be the Bridge
Captains often serve as the go-between for coaches and players, in addition to being the only designated player typically allowed to communicate with referees. Listen to your teammates, bring concerns to the coach or ref respectfully, and keep communication flowing in both directions. It’s also a chance to model respectful and calm communication. For what it’s worth, no fan wants to see the captain screaming orders at their teammates.
Tip: Think of yourself as the team’s translator! Turn stress into strategy, and help everyone feel heard and respected.
Celebrate Every Role
The star forward AND the quiet defender both deserve love. Great captains hype up every player, especially those whose contributions often go unnoticed.
Tip: Shout out someone after practice who showed grit or growth, even if they didn’t score.
Set the Standard
Be the one who’s on time (or perhaps early!), focused, and locked in. Your consistency creates team culture. When others see your dedication, they’ll rise to meet it. Alex Morgan once said, “keep working even when nobody is watching!” That’s the kind of persistence that will serve as an example for the rest of the team.
Tip: Set an example by being the first on the field and the last to leave.
Check In Off the Field
Sometimes leadership means noticing when someone’s having a rough day. Text a teammate, walk with them after school, or just ask, “You okay?” It matters. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and as captain, it’s important that you’re aware of where your team’s head is at.
Former interim coach for Angel City FC, Sam Laity, said of co-captain Angelina Anderson, “She has a very, very wise head on her shoulders, her ability to stay relaxed and calm when things get challenging and difficult.”
Tip: The best teams are built on trust. And trust comes from caring beyond soccer.
Play for More Than Yourself
The best captains are fueled by something bigger, whether it’s team unity, a love for the game, or representing girls who don’t yet feel seen. Bring that passion and purpose every time you step on the field.
Tip: NWSL players play with fire because they know they’re paving the way. So are you.
Final Whistle:
Leadership isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present, passionate, and committed to your people. Follow these tips to lead like the pros, and the results will follow!
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