In her return to Minnesota a year after taking on the role of U.S. women’s national team manager, Emma Hayes is in the locker room hallways following a press conference with media, taking the time to chat with a young family and posing for pictures with their daughters. She asks playful questions of the little girls, funneling their excitement before politely making her exit after signing souvenir rally towels. This moment is emblematic of how Hayes’ appointment marked a significant change for U.S. Soccer. Unlike previous managers, she has a public profile that can compete alongside her star players.

The USWNT has built a long history of winning, acquiring four World Cups and five Olympic gold medals. Hayes became coach over a team in transition, inheriting superstars either retired or in varying phases of their careers, yet the expectation remains: winning is non-negotiable.

“You can’t waste a single session, a single opportunity,” Hayes emphasized about her first year as USWNT manager. Hayes has exceeded expectations, leading the team to Olympic gold in Paris after just 75 days on the job, while invigorating roster changes and laying the groundwork for future successes.

She formulated “The WNT Way,” centered on placing the female perspective at the heart of the program while affecting change within player development, coaching, and healthcare in women’s soccer. As the USWNT gears up for the 2027-28 cycle with upcoming friendlies against Ireland and Canada, the emphasis on maximizing every moment remains pivotal.