Pine-Richland Community Excited As Hometown Favorite Wins World Cup With Women's Soccer Team
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- "USA! USA!" The chant was heard many times at Schenley Plaza Sunday night as the U. S. women's soccer team scored early and often to win the World Cup, 5-2.
The big screen in the plaza drew 1,500 fans to cheer the team, and a hometown favorite.
"I went to high school with one of the players," said Camilla Ortiz or Wexford. "We all did. So we're so proud. We're so proud of her and what she's done."
The World Cup is a dream come true for Meghan Klingenberg, who graduated from Pine-Richland High School eight years ago.
The boys' soccer team was practicing at Pine-Richland Monday morning. Players said Meghan's triumph will spur them on.
"You know, it puts us back on the map," one said. "We didn't go too well last year, didn't make the playoffs. But we're coming in this season hoping to have a good season, just like she did."
"It just gives us that much more motivation to do well this year," another added.
Matt Hugus coached Meghan's brother, Drew, now playing soccer at Penn State. He says their success has filtered down to his own players.
"I think it gives a lot of the boys hope that, if you work hard, you pay your dues like Meghan did here, you might be able to make the national team."
Meghan Klingenberg's advice: the team comes first.
"We think of each other as a unit. We think that I have your back, and I know you have mine."
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter