West Wake News

CARY, N.C. (June 18, 2024) — The North Carolina Courage has announced the Conversations Over Cleats video series, presented by Arkema, as part of the team’s 2024 Pride Initiatives.

The Conversations Over Cleats three-part video series will feature an NC Courage player designing Pride-themed cleats alongside local artist Anna Luking. The series will include conversations between the artist and player about Pride, the creation of the cleats, and the cleats being presented to the player.

“The North Carolina Courage demonstrates in so many ways Arkema’s own values of performance, inclusion, and solidarity. Arkema has an important research and development center in Cary and because sports and community are vital components of Arkema’s business, Conversations over Cleats in particular allows Arkema to connect with the region in a unique and meaningful way. We are grateful for our relationship with the Courage and its players,” said Tony O’Donovan, President and CEO of Arkema Inc.

The cleats designed during this initiative will be signed by the players involved and auctioned off. Proceeds from the auction will go to the LGBT Center of Raleigh. The auction will start on June 23 and end on June 26 at 11:59 p.m., with a link posted on NC Courage social media channels.

“Our club values the amplification of conversations around the LGBT community at all times, especially during Pride Month. We strive to find initiatives that will make a real impact, and we’re proud of this important video series and unique fundraiser for the LGBT Center of Raleigh, which does so much good for the community. We are thrilled to have a great relationship with Arkema and participation from members of the Triangle for this endeavor,” said Club President Francie Gottsegen.

The cleats will be displayed at Fan Fest prior to the team’s Pride Match on June 23 against the Chicago Red Stars. Tickets for this match can be found online.

Videos from this initiative will be available on NC Courage social media channels and YouTube.

About North Carolina Courage: The North Carolina Courage is in its eighth season of competition in 2024 since beginning play in the National Women’s Soccer League (USSF Division I) in 2017. The team was formed after Steve Malik purchased Western New York Flash and relocated it to Cary, North Carolina. They play home games at WakeMed Soccer Park. The team has claimed seven league trophies as three-time NWSL Shield winners (2017, 2018, 2019), two-time NWSL Champions (2018, 2019), two-time UKG NWSL Challenge Cup champions (2022, 2023), and won the 2018 ICC Championship.

Follow NC Courage online at www.nccourage.com or on social media @TheNCCourage.