CARY, N.C. (June 18, 2024) — The North Carolina Courage is proud to announce 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, and 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, which will be signed by the players who helped design them, will be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to the LGBT Center of Raleigh. The auction will start on June 23 and end on June 26 at 11:59 p.m. A link to the auction will be posted on the NC Courage social media channels. “Our club values the amplification of conversations around the LGBT community at all times, and 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 on display at Fan Fest prior to the team’s Pride Match on June 23 against the Chicago Red Stars. Tickets for the match can be found here. Be on the lookout for the videos on the NC Courage social media channels and YouTube.
About the North Carolina Courage: The North Carolina Courage are in their eighth season of competition in 2024 since beginning play in the National Women’s Soccer League (USSF Division I) in 2017. The Courage were formed after Steve Malik purchased the Western New York Flash and relocated the franchise to Cary, North Carolina, and play their home games at WakeMed Soccer Park. The Courage are the winningest club in NWSL history, claiming seven league trophies as three-time NWSL Shield winners (2017, 2018, 2019), two-time NWSL Champions (2018, 2019), and two-time UKG NWSL Challenge Cup champions (2022, 2023). The Courage also won the 2018 ICC Championship. Follow the Courage on the web at www.nccourage.com and on social media @TheNCCourage.
