Loyden: US Soccer Needs to Take Action Against Solo

By not taking action against goalie Hope Solo, charged with assault on two family members, U.S. Soccer "is not living up to its responsibilities," says former keeper, Jillian Loyden in yesterday's USA Today.

When fans think of the women's national Team, they think of winning and success, of the most successful women's team in sports, of the "glad standard.  But Loydon argues, "U.S. Soccer must be the gold standard beyond the field as well."

"As professional athletes, we have leverage and influence in people's lives. People listen to us, and fans look up to us. We are role models and should strive to be champions both on and off the field. We have a responsibility to make our voices heard and make them count."

Loyden, who plays for Sky Blue FC in the NWSL, reveals in her article that her sister was murdered, allegedly by her fiance, who is awaiting trial. "It took my sister's death for me to stand up and speak out. When I looked into my nephew's eyes, I swore that I would not stay quiet anymore."

Loydon has organized the Jillian Loyden Foundation whose mission is to "to create and support signature programs and activities that motivate young people by empowering them and help them find value in themselves."