SANDY, Utah (ABC 4 Sports) - It started with Brandi Chastain's famous penalty kick goal in the 1999 World Cup, and it took off from there.
The popularity of womens soccer has exploded, and Utah fans are plenty excited for Team USA's final tuneup match before the Olympics against Canada Saturday at Rio Tinto Stadium.
During their final practice session, over one thousand fans showed up to watch the team train and get autographs. Over 15,000 fans are expected for the match tomorrow afternoon.
"I can't believe I got to meet Abby Wambach!" one little girl screamed.
"This is like a dream come true," shouted another.
Wambach, Hope Solo and Alex Morgan have become household names as the sport continues to grow.
"It's really awesome to see this [turnout] for a practice," said Morgan. "I didn't think that I would ever see something like this."
"When I was growing up, there really wasn't the national team in this capacity," said Wambach. "When I tell little kids some sort of advice, I say, 'Don't ever let someone say that you're not going to be good enough because you're the only one who's in control of your destiny.'"
"It's great to see the young women out here," added Solo. "But I have to admit, it's great to see all other ages as well -- men and women alike. I think that's what grows your sport."
Team USA is ranked #1 in the world as they get ready to head to London. But they want to go out on a winning note Saturday against Canada.
"It's great to have this support," said team captain Christie Rampone. "Especially right before the Olympics. To have a great sendoff and have these kinds of numbers tomorrow and send us off right, the team deserves it."
