EDITOR’S NOTE
I’m not trying to summon an early winter, but Flavor Flav sledding at 66 mph as Team USA’s hype man is, well, getting me hyped for the Milan Winter Olympics. We’re about 100 days out from the games — and from Stanley Tucci’s new gig as a sports commentator. While I count down the days, someone really needs to have a chat with the celebrities — I fear they’ve got their seasons confused. Seriously, could A’ja Wilson and Bam be any more in love? And are Madison Beer and QB Justin Herbert my new fave couple now? It’s supposed to be spooky season, not a lovefest. Before we dive into some sports headlines, I’ll leave you with this: the Glamour Women of the Year list, which features not one, but five incredible WNBA stars. Yes, glam can ball.
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
Let's Discuss
USWNT To Launch New Playbook To Support Pregnant Players
What's going on: The US Women’s National Team is kicking off a new chapter — right alongside many of its soccer players. Over the weekend, veteran forward Lynn Biyendolo announced her pregnancy (in the most adorable way), joining a roster of active players who are also expecting or recently gave birth. Talk about a baby boom. To support its expanding lineup, head coach Emma Hayes says the national team will develop a new game plan — one that’s focused on establishing pre- and postpregnancy protocols. The initiative, which hasn’t been formally announced, will build on an existing model that takes into account recovery needs and return-to-play timelines. The goal, Hayes says, is simple: “So that players feel supported.”
Our take: The USWNT’s initiative has been a long time coming, and it’s part of a growing shift in professional sports. As more players choose motherhood, they’re showing that family and career don’t have to be an either-or. Not long ago, World Cup champion Alex Morgan was asking for “unheard-of” things, like a private place to breastfeed, and pushing for better paid leave and childcare. She also normalized bringing her daughter along to practices and matches. Pregnancy, recovery, hormones, and injury risk vary for every woman, let alone elite athletes. Now, new policies like the national team’s won’t just support players, they’ll pave the way for safer returns and keep stars in the game longer.
Related: These Are the Most Powerful Women in Sports Right Now (Forbes)
Pick Six
More sports talkers you don't want to miss.
👑 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s coordinating outfits at Game 4 of the World Series are, dare we say, pitch perfect.
🎃 Kylie Kelce is drawing the line at this Halloween costume. No treats here, just tricks.
🏀 Megan Thee Stallion’s NBA beau might be struggling on the court, but her sideline looks are winning.
✨ OK, we’d play tackle football if we had these Louis Vuitton cleats.
💰 The NFL players’ union just wants WNBA athletes to get their bag. Talent recognizes talent.
🥊 Sydney Sweeney has a new look — and yes, she’s completely moved on from her role as a pro boxer.
Timeout...
Why is Sunday one of the biggest days in women's soccer?
Sunday is NWSL Decision Day — the final game day of the regular season, when all matches (with one exception) kick off at the same time. Seven teams already clinched playoff berths, leaving the No. 8 spot up for grabs. Racing Louisville and the North Carolina Courage are separated by just two points in the standings, so their entire seasons are riding on these games. For the teams who already qualified for the playoffs, they’ll learn who gets the privilege of fighting on their home turf. Kansas City and Washington have already locked in their home-field advantage, and these are two of the league’s hardest venues for visitors.
Psst…Catch back-to-back games on ESPN. Kansas City vs. San Diego starts at 3 pm ET, with North Carolina Courage vs. Gotham FC at 5 pm ET. The rest of the action will be on NWSL+, Apple TV, Fire TV, and Roku devices.
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Put Us in, Coach
In this week’s extra-spooky episode, Blake and Caroline (and their iconic costumes) break down how:
We were today years old when we learned Justin Bieber has a basketball team.
Of course, a snack is expected during an 18-inning game — just maybe not this one.
Travis Kelce is keepin’ it 100, in more ways than one.
No Notes
Just Trust Us
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
One of our favorite athleisure brands just dropped a sporty collab that has us running to add this cropped sweatshirt to our carts. Don’t wait.
Orthopedic sneaks, but make them cute. This comprehensive list has us questioning our entire shoe collection.
Surprise: Your hand sanitizer could be doing so much more. So we found one powered by K-beauty that works like skincare and smells even better.
Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).
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